Graft Concept

Simple advice is often overlooked because it's easier to ignore. In this episode, Chris explores the power of simplicity over complexity in life, work, and fitness. He emphasises that focusing on basics and action-oriented steps often leads to better long-term results than chasing complex solutions or seeking optimisation. Key topics Simplicity vs complexity in life and work The importance of...

In this episode of the Graft Concept Podcast, Chris Mann reintroduces the podcast after a long break, reflecting on the challenges of balancing personal ambition with family responsibilities. Chris discusses his journey of self-exploration, fitness, and sobriety, emphasising the importance of personal growth and the lessons learned along the way. This episode restarts the sharing of the process of...

Gemma Donnelly is a Coach and Breathwork Facilitator. In the latest episode of the podcast she highlights the transformative power of both practices. She discusses the importance of self-awareness, personal growth, and the ripple effects of individual change on relationships and parenting. The conversation also touches on the significance of navigating career transitions, the role of pain in motiv...

In this episode of the Graft Concept Podcast, host Chris Mann interviews Hannah Spencer, who recently attempted a world record to become the first female to ever row 250,000m indoors in 24 hours. Hannah shares her journey from inspiration to execution, detailing the tough challenges she faced during training, including injuries, fatigue and mental blocks. She reflects on the emotional highs and lo...

In this episode of the Graft Concept Podcast, Aqeel Arif shares his incredible journey of losing over 90 kilos in the last 3.5 years, going from struggling to walk for more than 2 minutes to completing the 2025 Manchester Marathon. Aqeel is joined by Jack Wardle, the Personal Trainer that has overseen every step of this journey. They discuss the challenges Aqeel faced, the role of education in und...

In this episode of the Graft Concept podcast, Chris interviews Ed Stubbs, a Chartered Financial Planner and Zone 2 running enthusiast. They discuss Ed's journey into Zone 2 running, the science behind it, and its benefits for endurance training. Ed shares his personal growth experiences, including a significant running challenge he undertook for charity. The conversation expands on to work-life ba...

In this episode of the Graft Concept Podcast, Chris interviews Jane Booth, a former lawyer turned investment advisor and yoga teacher. Jane shares her journey of prioritising well-being in the corporate world, and how this was influenced by a serious illness. She discusses the transformative impact of yoga on her life, including how she ended up as a yoga teacher, and shaped her approach to person...

In this episode of the Graft Concept Podcast, Chris flips from host to guest, as he is asked about his personal journey, discussing his experiences as a father, his career in property, and making fitness a key element of his life by Jordan Stachini. Chris talks about the importance of hard work, relationships, and self-awareness, encapsulated in his concept of 'graft.' Chris reflects on hi...

In this episode of the Graft Concept Podcast, Chris shares an unfiltered reflection on his journey over the past few months, focusing on personal growth, fitness, and the challenges of balancing family and career. He discusses the evolution of his fitness journey, the importance of communication and organisation in maintaining a sustainable lifestyle, and the role of ambition and ego in personal d...

In this episode of the Graft Concept Podcast, Chris Mann speaks with Richard Tyrrell and Andrew Bennie about their journey in creating and managing three major communities in Manchester: Manchester Young Professionals, Manchester Run Club, and The Social Collective. They discuss the evolution of networking as part of career and personal growth, the importance of building inclusive communities, and...

Summary In this episode of the Graft Concept Podcast, Chris Mann interviews Gra Grindrod, a running coach, business and sports mentor to college students. They discuss Graeme's journey into coaching, the rise of running post-COVID, and how to overcome barriers to starting running. Graeme explains key running terms like easy runs and tempo runs, the importance of interval training, and how to struc...

Summary In this conversation, Chris Mann and Rob Nugent discuss the challenges of maintaining fitness during the Christmas season, emphasising the importance of establishing healthy habits, recovery, and goal setting. They explore how to navigate social events without losing progress, the significance of accountability, and the benefits of personal development. The discussion highlights practical...

Summary In this episode of the Graft Concept Podcast, Chris discusses the significance of goal setting in personal development. The episode provides thought-provoking questions for each pillar of the Graft Concept to help listeners reflect on their current progress and then set meaningful goals. He encourages listeners to take time for reflection before diving into goal setting, especially as the...

This episode explores Hyrox, a global fitness race that combines functional training with endurance. Chris Mann discusses the format, categories, and the transformative impact of participating in Hyrox events. He emphasies the community aspect, accessibility for all fitness levels, and how Hyrox can serve as a gateway to personal development. The episode highlights the supportive atmosphere of the...

In this episode, Chris Mann shares his personal journey of sobriety, reflecting on the transformative benefits he has experienced over three years and eight months without alcohol. He discusses how sobriety has positively impacted his habits, confidence, relationships, fitness, productivity, and mental clarity. Chris also addresses the challenges faced during this journey, including societal press...

Summary In this episode of the Graft Concept podcast, Chris Mann interviews Carolyn Tipper, an executive leadership coach and founder of C the Solution. They discuss the common challenges leaders face, the importance of self-awareness, and the tools available for personal development. Carolyn emphasises the significance of understanding oneself and others in leadership roles, the impact of values,...

In this episode of the Graft Concept podcast, Rob Nugent returns to speak with Chris about the upcoming Hyrox event in Birmingham, sharing insights on training strategies, pacing, and the importance of communication in doubles. They emphasise the significance of preparation, both mentally and logistically, and the need to understand the rules of the event. The conversation also touches on balancin...

In this conversation, Chris Mann and Jordan Stachini discuss personal development and its impact on career and life. Jordan shares her journey of starting her own business, Manchester based marketing agency Co&Co, and how it happened gradually. They discuss the importance of following your intuition and making decisions based on what feels right for you. They also talk about the significance o...

In this conversation, Chris Mann interviews Tom Oliver, a youth mentor, ex-military, personal trainer, and CrossFit Level 2 coach. Tom and Chris first became friends after meeting at the gym and deciding to race a Hyrox in the men's doubles category, which led to qualifying for the Hyrox World Championships in 2023. They discuss Tom's journey from being in the military to his current caree...

Summary In this solo episode, Chris discusses the feeling of being stuck and how to break out of it. He explains that feeling stuck often occurs when we are stuck in a repetitive cycle without much variation. To break out of this cycle, he suggests acknowledging and understanding why you feel stuck, stepping outside of your comfort zone, setting small achievable goals, and finding someone to hold...

Taylor Haney is a Hyrox and Deka World Champion, head coach/owner of Reach Functional Fitness Gym in Knoxville, Tennessee, husband and father. In this conversation, Taylor and I discuss the popularity of Hyrox and why it has become so successful. Taylor explains how Hyrox bridges the gap between endurance sports and CrossFit, making it accessible for athletes who compete in both disciplines. Taylo...

My guest today is Rob Nugent Rob is a CrossFit L2 Coach, dad, husband and home business owner. We discuss Rob's journey of personal growth, making positive changes in his life, and the challenges he faced along the way. Rob shares his experience of giving up drinking, finding accountability and support in the CrossFit community, and transitioning from a corporate job to pursuing his passion. H...

Welcome back to the Graft Concept podcast. My guest today is James Ratcliffe sports therapist and owner of JPR Sports Therapy, Rochdale. James and I delve into the difference between sports therapy and physiotherapy, and his experience working with professional sports teams, academies and MMA fighters. We also discussed how to build a body for longevity, manage high running volume and avoid common...

If you have the feeling you can achieve more in life then this podcast will help. I embarked on a journey of personal development and it took me to places. I didn’t think possible. I’ve lost 22 kg in weight ditched a bad relationship with alcohol improved the most important relationships in my life and got fit. It’s been such a transformational journey people now ask me how I did it. The answer is...