The Bouncebackability Podcast

In this episode, Simon and Rusty catch up on recent podcast highlights and revisit the interviews that have ignited conversations. From Polly Brooks MBE ’s inspiring approach to life to Clare Sadler’ s fresh take on human performance, they explore the ideas that have stayed with them and their listeners. There’s also time for a few laughs as they reflect on the popularity of The Wives’ Special. Th...

In this bonus episode, Simon is joined once again by Clare Sadler to take a deeper dive into one of the core ideas behind human performance: Performance = Access to Capability . Clare unpacks why success isn't determined by mindset, motivation, or even how much training we've done, but by our ability to access the skills and capabilities we already possess when it matters most. Using exa...

In this episode, Simon and Rusty sit down with Clare Sadler, founder of Beyond Instinct, to explore the architecture behind performance under load.  Clare draws on the architecture of Human Systems Development — the discipline that shows what drives human performance under load and what determines whether capability becomes available, collapses or expands. The discipline is underpinned by decades...

A bit of a different one today! Rusty and Simon are joined by their wives, Jenny and Amy, for a post-lunch chat packed with funny and honest takes on hobbies (or lack thereof), mindfulness, and the real challenge of making time to properly switch off. From pottery and painting to sound baths, yoga, and  the simple act of staring out the window, they explore how creative outlets and shared moments...

Ever wondered how some people bounce back from setbacks while others burn out? In this episode, Simon and Rusty catch up and chat about resilience during busy, demanding times in work and life. They dig into the pressures of always performing at a high level and why taking time to recover really matters. They share stories, coaching reflections, and analogies to explore how leaders and teams can c...

This episode contains strong language and discussions of sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. These conversations may be distressing. If you or someone you know is struggling, we encourage you to seek support. You can contact the Samaritans at 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org . Please listen mindfully and prioritise your well-being.  In this powerful episode, Simon and Rusty a...

In this episode, Rusty and Simon dive into getting back to work after the holidays, adjusting routines, and the joy of reconnecting with family and friends. They explore the restorative power of nature, why intentions beat resolutions, and how small, meaningful actions create a ripple effect. Simon also shares his experience with the Letters to Our Sons project, and how mindfulness, emotional awar...

In the final episode of 2025, Simon and Rusty are joined by Suzanne Brown and Luke Doherty for a lively conversation on resilience, connection, and the power of pause. They discuss moving beyond basic resilience to a more integrated approach, incorporating mindfulness, presence, and how the support of a strong community can build true resilience. If you’re interested in deepening team connection a...

In this episode, Simon and Rusty reconnect to share what’s been happening in life and work, and the habits helping them stay grounded. Their conversation this month centres on polarity : the balance of seemingly opposite qualities that drive performance and strengthen resilience. Drawing on their own experiences and insights from past guests, they explore how successful environments balance risk w...

In this episode, Simon and Rusty sit down with Europe’s leading performance mind coach Karl Morris, to uncover what it truly takes to perform under pressure. With decades of experience working with six Major golf champions, former World Number Ones, and global business leaders, Karl has a remarkable ability to turn complex psychology into practical tools for real-world success. He shares powerful...

In this episode, Simon and Rusty explore the ways intentional pauses, mindful practices, and strong support networks can enhance resilience, well-being, and personal growth in every aspect of life. They reflect on real-life experiences from the past four weeks - Rusty’s time at home, where spending quality time with family and connecting with fellow coaches reinforced the value of relationships, a...

In this episode, Simon and Rusty explore how leaders can leverage environment, mindfulness, and resilience to fuel both personal and organisational growth.  Drawing from stories over the past month, they demonstrate how thoughtfully designed spaces—whether in the workplace or on the sports field—ignite connection, sharpen focus, and inspire meaningful progress. They also discuss why being fully pr...

In this episode Simon and Rusty bring a refreshing, experience-led perspective on how to lead and live with greater intention. Through stories from a mindfulness golf retreat, a visit to the BRIT School, and a rugby camp in the U.S., Simon and Rusty uncover valuable lessons on the power of switching off to gain clarity, the role of storytelling and gratitude in growth, and what effective, purpose-...

In this episode, Simon and Rusty talk with former professional rugby player, cancer ‘thriver’, and human-first performance coach, Sam Leeming. Sam’s rugby journey began with Newcastle Falcons and flourished at Hartpury University, where he earned a BSc in Sport Performance, multiple England Students caps, and a professional contract. But at just 23, his career was suddenly put on hold when he was...

In this episode, Simon and Rusty dive into the small behaviour changes and mindset shifts that build resilience and foster what they call “bouncebackability.” Through candid conversation, they reflect on Simon’s recent digital detox experiment and how stepping away from technology—even briefly—can create space for deeper thinking, creativity, and presence. They also explore how journaling and inte...

In today’s episode, podcast founders Simon Ursell and Rusty Earnshaw revisit some of the key themes explored throughout the podcast - examining what they mean in today’s world of leadership, resilience, and bouncebackability. This is an open and honest conversation about the pressures leaders face, and what can happen when we don’t prioritise rest and recovery. Simon shares his personal journey th...

In today’s episode, Rusty and Simon, co-founder of Tyler Grange, sit down with four key members of the TG family to dive deep into what makes this forward-thinking organisation tick.  Covering key themes such as embracing change, cultural innovation, and building resilience - including bold moves like implementing the four-day workweek - the discussion highlights each guest's unique values ar...

In this episode, we dissect the critical role of values in resilient leadership with high-profile leadership expert, Elicia Robinson. Elicia is on a mission to help leaders strengthen their relationships, think more strategically, and approach challenges with a fresh perspective - whether through coaching, tailored development programs, or guiding high-stakes conversations. She has worked with top...

In today’s episode, Simon and Rusty take a heartfelt look back at the incredible interviews of 2024, highlighting the key takeaways, lightbulb moments, and powerful stories that moved and motivated them and the listeners. Together, they review the 10 transformative conversations that have challenged their perspectives on resilience and redefined what it means to embody bouncebackability in life’s...

On today’s episode, we have the pleasure of exploring resilience and mindfulness with our special guest, Karim Rushdy. Our conversation centres around his inspiring journey of transformation through challenges, including years of chronic back pain and a significant financial loss. We talk about the profound impact of cultivating a beginner’s mindset, re-framing life’s obstacles and achieving excel...

WARNING: This episode contains strong language and discussions of sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. These discussions may be distressing for some listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling, we encourage you to seek help. You can reach out to the Samaritans on 116 123 or https://samaritans.org/ . Please listen with care and prioritise your wellbeing.  Dave is a former...

In today's episode we talk in depth with ESports coach, Caleb Cousens. With 13 years of experience as an organisational leader, Caleb has built a team of world-class coaches dedicated to enhancing the skills of professional gamers and Esports athletes worldwide.  Transforming team dynamics, fighting burnout and creating supportive, high-performance environments are just some of the innovation...

In today's episode we dive deep into the world of high-pressure careers with our special guest, Mike Haynes. Affectionately known as "the king of Kent", Mike is a former oil market broker who now coaches other brokers on improving their performance and finding resilience within this challenging industry. He shares the ups and downs of his career and his transition out of broking to...

In today's episode, we are joined by former BRIT School Deputy Head - turned Entrepreneur and Founder of The Creativity Clinic, Kirsty Hunter. Kirsty’s mission is huge – to destroy social and financial barriers to the arts and education, and to disrupt co-working and leisure spaces through the integration of the arts. Her aim is to provide a much-needed resource whilst creating meaningful and...

In today's episode we are joined by Birmingham-based Olympic rugby player and former GB bobsledder, Heather Fisher. Heather is an accomplished elite athlete, motivational speaker, LGBT advocate and media personality with her own BBC radio podcast. After a difficult start in life, Heather quickly found she excelled in the sports arena. Breaking her back in four places in her late 20s left her...