Andy Bennett had his first break with his band The Elements (formerly known as
Sargent) which included Tim Jacques, Lee Burn and Dave Casswell. The Elements
regularly gigged throughout Birmingham and supported Ocean Colour Scene. The
band released their first album, The Elements, on Acid Jazz Records music label
and the album charted at #7 in the indie music charts.
Andy joined Ocean Colour Scene on 8 April 2004 (when he participated in the Royal
Albert Hall concert). He has featured on the following albums:
One for the Road (2004) (Guitar, Background Vocals)
A Hyperactive Workout for the Flying Squad (2005) (Guitar)
Live Acoustic at the Jam House (2006) (Acoustic and Electric Guitar,
Background Vocals)
Live at Birmingham Academy (2006)
On the Leyline (2007) (Acoustic and Electric Guitar)
Live at the Town Hall (2008)
Saturday (2010) (Composer)
21 (2010) (Guitar, Composer)
Bennett co-wrote the song "Old Pair of Jeans" which was on
the Saturday album. According to The Digital Fix, "It just gets better with every song
a winner. The jaunty ‘Old Pair Of Jeans’ is rollicking fun: "I wish you didn't get hung
up so easily / When you're bound fall apart you always fall apart at the seams / So
worn and so torn..like an old pair of jeans." The song also featured on the 21 album.
Bennett has toured with Ocean Colour Scene since 2004, but left in February 2015
to focus on his solo material.
You can see Andy Bennett live at The Regency Hotel in Solihull on Monday
nights with his great musician partner Simon Foster – Benny & The Foz!
BENNY & THE FOZ (Andy Bennett formerly of Ocean Colour Scene) | Facebook
Mark de Freitas Bio – Seeking Happiness
Welcome to "Seeking Happiness," a podcast that shines a light on wellbeing and positive change with your host, Mark de Freitas. As an accomplished Psychologist and Sports Scientist, Mark brings over 40 years of expertise in exploring the human mind. Through his successful hypnotherapy practice, he specializes in using hypnosis and self-hypnosis techniques to foster deep relaxation and profound personal transformation.
In each episode, Mark will guide you through fascinating insights into how the brain functions and how you can alter your thinking to enhance your life. This podcast is a beacon for anyone seeking answers on how to achieve a happier, more fulfilling life. It emphasizes the power of personal change and the potential within each of us to pursue a path of increased happiness and wellbeing.
Listening to "Seeking Happiness," you will gain not only knowledge but also practical tools to help kickstart or advance your journey. Mark is known for his open, honest communication, ensuring that every listener feels welcomed and supported.
Resources Provided by Mark:
Join us on "Seeking Happiness" to unlock the doors to a better, happier you. Subscribe now and start your journey towards a brighter future filled with joy and wellbeing.
In this inspiring episode of "The Happiness Podcast," we delve into the remarkable journey of Daniel Astarita, the Managing Director of 'Kesslers London,' a renowned manufacturing team known for collaborating with major brands like Sainsbury's, L'Oreal, Adidas, Dior, and Primark. Daniel takes us through his enlightening and thought-provoking life story, revealing the pivotal moments and decisions that catapulted him from the shop floor to the helm of a global operation.
Daniel's narrative is not just about professional success; it's a deeper exploration of personal growth, resilience, and the pursuit of happiness. He shares intimate details of his family life and the challenges and triumphs of undergoing IVF treatment, offering listeners a candid look at the struggles behind the scenes. This episode shines a light on the importance of support, perseverance, and finding joy in the journey, not just the destination.
Listeners will find Daniel's insights into business development and leadership invaluable, especially his philosophy on climbing "Happiness Mountain." His approach combines strategic thinking with a heartfelt understanding of the human experience, making him a compelling guide for anyone looking to find fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives.
As Daniel shares his story, he also instigates ideas behind his business focus, emphasizing the role of innovation, customer engagement, and brand collaboration in achieving success. His sharp observations and engaging storytelling make this episode a must-listen for those seeking inspiration on their path to happiness.
https://www.kesslers.com/
Join us in an inspiring episode as we explore the captivating journey of Linda Pagnini, a multifaceted musician and actress, whose collaborations with the fantastic guitarist Roger Crombie and the world-renowned composer George Fenton have set stages alight. Linda opens up about her incredible life story, which serves as a testament to the idea that change and the ascent of 'Happiness Mountain' are within everyone's grasp.
Linda’s musical ventures, especially with her band ‘Apeccs,’ offer a rich tapestry of sound that resonates across the internet, captivating listeners worldwide. Fans and new listeners alike can explore Apeccs’ soul-stirring melodies, including tracks like ‘Dark Night,’ at Apeccs.com. The site not only hosts their latest tunes but also provides a platform for fans to leave messages for Linda, which she cherishes and makes an effort to respond to, highlighting her genuine connection with her audience.
Beyond her musical talents, Linda Pagnini shares her soulful interpretation of humanity, emphasizing the intrinsic value and understanding each of our ambitions deserves. Her story is not just about musical and acting accomplishments but also about an honest and deeply intriguing individual’s journey through life’s ups and downs, and how she interprets those experiences through her art.
Listeners will be moved by Linda’s honest reflections and encouraged by her belief in the power of change and personal growth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of creativity, personal development, and the pursuit of happiness. Linda’s narrative reassures us that reaching for our dreams and climbing our own Happiness Mountain is not only possible but within reach.
Check out her music at Apeccs.com and on Spotify here : https://open.spotify.com/artist/3TQyqllhesBi3x9AhUYssS
In this podcast episode, we delve into the powerful story of Andrew, who experienced a life-changing event on January 1st, 2023. Awakening in a hospital, heavily medicated, Andrew was initially unaware of the severity of his condition. He had suffered a sudden cardiac arrest during a run with his daughter, Amber, in Harlow, Essex. This incident was a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of emergency medical training.
Amber, trained as a lifeguard and familiar with CPR, played a crucial role in her father's survival. Her quick actions and the assistance of a cardiology nurse who happened to be nearby were pivotal. The intense situation unfolded rapidly, with Amber performing CPR, summoning help, and guiding emergency services to their location. The arrival of first responders, police, and paramedics, including the use of a defibrillator, was crucial in stabilizing Andrew for transport to the hospital.
This story underscores the critical importance of first aid training, particularly CPR, in saving lives during cardiac emergencies. Andrew's survival, with a 90% mortality rate for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, was nothing short of miraculous. He emphasizes how Amber's CPR training, albeit years ago, proved invaluable during those critical moments.
Post-event, Andrew's journey through recovery highlights the complexities and challenges faced by cardiac arrest survivors. He speaks about the mental and physical rehabilitation process, both for himself and his family. The psychological impact on those who witness such traumatic events is profound, often overlooked, but equally important.
Andrew's path back to health included a structured rehabilitation program, starting with simple exercises and eventually resuming running. His experience brings to light the mental and physical toll of such an event, but also the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
This story is not just about survival; it's a testament to the power of emergency preparedness, the strength of family bonds, and the remarkable capacity of the human body and spirit to overcome adversity. Andrew's experience serves as a reminder of the value of first aid knowledge and the profound impact it can have in a moment of crisis.
In a heartening episode of our series, we sit down with James Rocks, known in the acting world as Chris Burrow, who opens up about his multifaceted journey from encountering the shadows of depression and mental health challenges to illuminating paths for others through his experiences. James is in the throes of launching an online support program aimed at aiding individuals grappling with depression and mental health issues, inspired by his own battles and triumphs over adversity.
James candidly discusses his past encounters with stressful and negative work environments, sharing insights into how these experiences, once burdensome, became pivotal in steering his life towards a more fulfilling direction. His story is not just one of overcoming, but of transformation—utilizing his personal struggles as a foundation to support and enlighten others facing similar battles.
His upcoming project, an online help program, reflects his commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those who struggle in silence. James believes in the power of change and the importance of seeking help, a message he delivers with a chirpy attitude that's nothing short of infectious. His positive outlook and vibrant spirit serve as a beacon of hope, encouraging listeners to visualize and enact the changes necessary to chase after happiness in their own lives.
Listeners will find James's approach to tackling mental health issues refreshing and relatable. Through his journey, he demonstrates that it's possible to turn life's challenges into opportunities for growth and to find happiness in the process. His interview is a compelling listen for anyone looking to make positive changes in their life or to understand the transformative power of facing one's fears with optimism and courage.
Chris/James is contactable on https://chrisburrow3.wixsite.com/jamesrocks or at IMDb James Rocks
In this deeply moving episode, we meet Dale Parker, a teenage actor whose story of recovery from a challenging school experience captures the essence of resilience and hope. Despite facing mental stress and adversity, Dale's upbeat attitude and proactive approach to life shine as a beacon for young individuals everywhere, demonstrating that it’s possible to turn one’s life around, even under the most daunting circumstances.
Dale opens up about his journey through mental stress, offering insights into the coping mechanisms and support systems that helped him navigate these challenges. His story is not just one of overcoming but of thriving, as he carves out a space for himself in the world of acting, using his experiences to enrich his performances and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Listeners will find Dale's candidness about his struggles and his determination to rise above them both inspiring and relatable. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the potential for personal transformation. Dale's narrative encourages us to face our challenges head-on and to find our own paths to happiness and fulfillment, no matter the obstacles.
For anyone dealing with their own struggles or interested in the stories of those who’ve turned adversity into opportunity, Dale Parker's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of mental health awareness, and the unyielding pursuit of one’s passions.
Join us in an enlightening conversation with Pete King, a versatile talent who navigates the realms of acting, writing, directing, and stand-up comedy with a unique blend of humor, honesty, and integrity. Armed with multiple qualifications in psychology and mental health, Pete offers an intimate glimpse into his life journey, sharing personal anecdotes and reflections on his quest for happiness and his battles against depression.
Pete's approach to tackling life's challenges is both refreshing and profound. He explores the positive angles that contribute to what he describes as the happiness formula, providing listeners with practical insights on how to pivot towards positivity and well-being. His ability to weave humor into discussions of serious topics like mental health not only makes his message more relatable but also serves as a powerful reminder of the therapeutic value of laughter.
In this episode, Pete's reflections are not just about overcoming adversity; they're about embracing life's ups and downs with grace and humor. His story is an inspiring testament to the power of perspective in the pursuit of happiness and the impact of humor in finding light in the darkest of times.
Listeners will undoubtedly find Pete's vision and insights both helpful and inspirational. Beyond his achievements in the entertainment industry, Pete King emerges as a beacon of hope for anyone facing adversity, proving that it's possible to lead a positive, fulfilling life despite the challenges. And, as noted, his good looks are just the icing on the cake!
In this new episode, we have the pleasure to chat with Tamsin Cope.
Tamsin is a Californian who's moved to the UK via Mexico and Australia. She has worked in TV and Film production in L.A. and talks about her life journey which has led her to the other side of the camera and to overcome many life issues which affect us all. Tamsin shows us that Seeking Happiness is an universal goal and is achievable by everyone regardless of life chances and choices.
Here are some questions we will be asking:
· Tell us a little about your childhood and any problems that you had to overcome.
· Can you give us a few details about your journey leading up to you leaving your home and country.
· I understand that you’ve become an actor/actress– tell me a little more about this part of your life and ‘why’ acting?
· How do you think dealing with the Covid Crisis impacted you personally?
· What are your thoughts on the current crisis/invasion in Ukraine?
· Have you ever reached a point where you realized you wanted to make some lifestyle changes? Can you elaborate upon how you went about making those changes?
· Can you reflect upon your experience of dealing with difficult situations in recent times..
· What do you do to help you relax and relieve the stresses of life? Are you a member of any clubs or have any hobbies which help you when seeking happiness?
· What type of books do you read? Can you make some recommendations for our listeners?
· What are your TOP 3 TIPS to help anyone who might be feeling they need to make changes in their personal life or circumstances.
· What do you think are the biggest issues faced by any individuals who want to create a happier lifestyle for themselves and their families?
In this new episode, we have the pleasure to chat with Stephen Pennell Author and Radio and host of King City Online (News & Reviews From The Birmingham Music Scene) https://www.kingcity.online/
Enjoy
Thank you for reading, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/seekinghappinesspodcast
In this new episode for 2022, we have the pleasure to chat with Andrew Longfield - Radio presenter, Musician, Actor, and Motor enthusiast. Andrew formed his own company in the plumbing trade in his youth and is always looking for new opportunities, He can help people realise that the possibilities of life are endless. Enjoy
Thank you for reading, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/seekinghappinesspodcast
In this week's another special Christmas episode, we have the pleasure to interview Mav Akram. Here are some questions we will be asking:
· Tell us a little about your childhood and problems that you remember having to overcome. (The importance of family dynamics and how these may have affected you in adulthood)
· You run the Women’s Boxing Club in Birmingham. Can you explain to our listeners what this role involves?
· What would you say is your experience in dealing with this area?
· Can you tell us a little about your thoughts on dealing with change and uncertainty? (perhaps elaborate on the steps/support that boxing provides to help people reinvent/discover themselves)
· Boxing training not only fights anger management, mental health, and weight issues; it can provide a new sense of well-being and happiness – Do you think this reflects your reasons to help empower women?
· Tell me about your recent work with BOA and your help with their Theatre Play.
· You won an award at The Muslim Women Awards in London; can you tell me a little more about that?
· Community Winter Camp in December – tell me a little more about that and what listeners can expect.
· Do you ever feel isolated/lonely; how do you deal with this?
· How do you think dealing with the Covid crisis affected you personally?
· Have you ever reached a point where you realized you wanted to make some lifestyle changes? Can you elaborate upon how you went about making those changes?
· Can you reflect upon your experience of dealing with difficult situations in your life?
· What do you do to help you relax and relieve the stresses of life?
· What type of books do you read? Can you make some recommendations for our listeners?
· What are your TOP 3 TIPS to help anyone who might be feeling they need to make changes in their personal life or circumstances.
Thank you for reading, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/seekinghappinesspodcast
In this week's special Christmas episode we have the honor and pleasure to chat with Leanne Bayliss, mother, blogger, and author on alcohol addictions and sobering up.
This episode is for people that think or may think their relationship with alcohol is becoming a problem with their life, and that there is light and hope for us all.
Enjoy.
https://www.instagram.com/soberlittlemotherred/
Books we liked:
The day the crayons came home: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Day-Crayons-Came-Home/dp/0008124442/
Tava O'Halloran – Queen of Clubs: https://www.amazon.com/Queen-Clubs-white-knuckled-entertaining-unpredictable/dp/B087CP84JG
So lucky by Dawn O'Porter : https://www.amazon.com/So-Lucky-Dawn-O-Porter-audiobook/dp/B07S2ZBJTG
Ed Jackson – Lucky: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lucky-Ed-Jackson/dp/0008423369
Will Smith: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Audible-Will/dp/B097N6LDMF/
Hello there, welcome back to the podcast, this week we have a conversation about our last few episodes and take stock of the wisdom and tips shared by our lovely guests.
Here is the link to the wonderful documentary The Devil and Daniel Johnston: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0436231/
Daniel Johnston: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_Johnston
Thank you and see you in the next episode,
PS: Be happy. The best days are still ahead of us. Neil Milligan 2021. (The Seeking Happiness Podcast)
https://anchor.fm/seekinghappinesspodcast
This week, we're thrilled to introduce Anna Urnova, a distinguished high-performance executive coach and an award-winning author, to our listeners. With over 15 years of experience, Anna has been a guiding light for business leaders worldwide, helping them navigate complex changes, enhance performance, and infuse fun into their professional lives.
In an era where mid-career stagnation is all too common, Anna brings a fresh perspective with her FREE Masterclass. She outlines five crucial steps that have empowered her clients—driven, middle-aged professionals—to move from feelings of being stuck and unfulfilled to leading impactful, happy, and purpose-driven lives. This episode offers a sneak peek into the transformative journeys of real men who, under Anna's guidance, reinvented themselves without the need to compromise on their professional standing or personal lives.
Listeners will be treated to inspiring stories of genuine transformation, illustrating how it's possible to revitalize one's career and personal satisfaction simultaneously. Anna's approach is not about drastic changes that put you at risk but about strategic, authentic shifts that align with your core values and aspirations.
For anyone feeling stagnant in their mid-career, looking to make a significant change without jeopardizing everything they've worked hard for, this episode is a beacon of hope. Anna Urnova not only shares her wisdom and strategies but also extends an invitation to her masterclass, a resource that could be the first step toward a happier, more fulfilled version of you.
Best wishes on your journey to rediscovery and fulfillment, and remember, transformation is just a masterclass away. Check out Anna's masterclass here: Anna Urnova's Masterclass.
In this week’s episode, we have the awesome Paul Francis sharing his own story about music and his love for photography. Here is some question we are asking Paul:
· Tell us a little about your life journey and what you dreamed of achieving when you were a child.
· You were a musician for a chapter of your life. Can you tell the listeners what led you into that area and how it progressed?
· You’ve kept in touch with other musicians from this part of your life; tell me a little about these people and what they bring to your life. (Importance of staying grounded by old friends)
· You mentioned to me about joining a branch of the military; can you elaborate on this and reflect on what you did.
· Can you give us a few details about the job that you are now doing and the demands it makes of you.
· How do you think dealing with Brexit and the Covid Crisis affected your business and you personally?
· Have you ever reached a point where you realised you wanted to make some lifestyle changes. Can you elaborate upon how you went about making those changes? (Photography)
· Can you reflect upon your experience of dealing with difficult situations in your life.
· What do you do to help you relax and relieve the stresses of work life?
· What type of books do you read? Can you make some recommendations for our listeners?
· What are your TOP 3 TIPS to help anyone who might be feeling they need to make changes in their personal life or circumstances.
· What do you think are the biggest issuesfaced by any individuals who want to create a happier lifestyle for themselves and their families?
In this week's episode, we have the pleasure to have Kal sharing his own story about spirituality and his beliefs.
Here is some question we are asking Kal:
· Tell us a little about your childhood and problems that you had to overcome.
· You’re journey from Hungary wasn’t something you really expected as a child or even welcomed. Do you still feel that way?
· Do you still keep in contact with family in Hungary?
· Do you ever feel isolated/lonely; how do you deal with this?
· Tell me more about your spirituality and your beliefs (angels/numbers).
· How do you think dealing with the Covid Crisis affected you personally?
· Have you ever reached a point where you realized you wanted to make some lifestyle changes? Can you elaborate upon how you went about making those changes?
· Can you reflect upon your experience of dealing with difficult situations in your life.
· What do you do to help you relax and relieve the stresses of life? Are you a member of any clubs or have any hobbies which help you when seeking happiness?
· What type of books do you read? Can you make some recommendations for our listeners?
· What are your TOP 3 TIPS to help anyone who might be feeling they need to make changes in their personal life or circumstances.
· What do you think are the biggest issuesfaced by any individuals who want to create a happier lifestyle for themselves and their families?
This week episode we have the pleasure to have Francesca Rose who was courageous and kind enough to share her own story about eating disorders and the effects that come along with it.
Here is some question we be asking Francesca:
Tell us a little about your childhood and the problems that you had to overcome.
What are ‘eating disorders’ and how would someone know if they were experiencing this? (How would parents/family/friends recognize the signs?)
Are there obsessions/rituals that people with eating disorders experience?
Where should someone go to if they are seeking help and happiness with an eating disorder?
Can you just reflect on the Therapy that you took part in and explain to listeners what that involved.
Therapy is a recovery process that may not ‘fit’ everyone. Do you think it’s possible to recover and ‘seek happiness’ by yourself (a ‘self-help journey’ without counselling)?
Recovery must be a difficult journey; what do you think were the most difficult moments for you?
I understand that you’re an author and have written some books about your experiences and how others can benefit. Can you tell our listeners a little about the books and where they can access them?
What do you do to help you relax and relieve the stresses of your life? Are you a member of any clubs or have any hobbies which help you when seeking happiness?
What type of books do you read? Can you make some recommendations for our listeners?
What are your TOP 3 TIPS to help anyone who might be feeling they need to make changes in their personal life or circumstances.
What do you think are the biggest issues faced by any individuals who want to create a happier lifestyle for themselves and their families?
Thank you for reading, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/seekinghappinesspodcast
Didier and Andrew recap the past episodes. In this week's episode, we talk to reflect on the podcast seeking happiness.
Thank you for reading, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/seekinghappinesspodcast
In this week's episode, we talk to Andre & Dave about their joint venture in the food truck business/street food in Birmingham, UK.
We had so much fun, and you can tell we did. Happy listening.
Questions addressed this week include:
Tell us a little about your upbringing, guys, where you are from?
What advice and strategies can you share for people having problems in their life right now?
What motivate you guys?
What books you can recommend?
Top 3 Tips to help people make personal changes in their life!
Thank you for reading, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/seekinghappinesspodcast