InCredible Witness

Michael explores the concept of dealing with personal disasters and catastrophes. The episode begins by acknowledging the natural inclination to question why these bad things happen to us, but emphasises the importance of not remaining in a victim mindset. Michael shares personal experiences and highlights the need to let go of the past, take responsibility for one's actions, and find meaning and...

In this episode, Michael reflects on the importance of addressing uncomfortable or challenging discussions. Inspired by a Simon Sinek interview, Michael talks about the need to express fears and anxieties about having these conversations with the person involved. He discusses the significance of maintaining relationships and the potential risks of ignoring unresolved issues. Michael shares persona...

Michael reflects on the concept of testimony and credibility in the context of a film called The Gift. The film explores the idea of extrasensory perception and the challenges of presenting such evidence in a court of law. Drawing parallels to the family court, Michael talks about the importance of thoroughly assessing and understanding the factors causing harm to a child. By gaining insight into...

Michael explores the motivation behind the work that people do, particularly in professions such as social work, teaching, and nursing. The episode acknowledges the desire to make a positive impact in the lives of clients and discusses the challenges that arise when working with children and families who may not agree with the professional's perspective. The episode also highlights the indirect po...

Michael explores the profound impact a smile can have on a newborn baby and throughout their life. The episode emphasises the importance of a parent's smile in conveying love, trust, and a sense of belonging to their child. It highlights how a smile can shape a child's self-esteem, resilience, and ability to express love to others. The episode also discusses the power of a smile in creating health...

In this episode titled "What are you trading your life for?" Michael shares a powerful encounter in an accident and emergency waiting room. A stressful and upsetting encounter prompts Michael to reflect on the importance of discovering one's purpose in life and the impact it can have on overall well-being. The episode explores the idea of trading one's life for something meaningful and fulfilling,...

This episode explores the importance of well-being and care for employees in various industries. Drawing from interviews with Ariana Huffington and Simon Sinek, Michael highlights the detrimental effects of neglecting the mental health and well-being of workers. The episode emphasises the need for companies to prioritise the care and empowerment of their employees, as it directly impacts productiv...

In this episode titled "Am I on trial?", Michael reflects on his traumatic experience of giving evidence at the family court. Following the brutal death of a young child, Michael found himself feeling as though he was the one on trial for the child's murder. The intense emotions and self-doubt that accompanied his time in the witness box were exacerbated by the adversarial environment of the court...

In this episode, the Incredible Witness podcast explores the challenging and often daunting experience of being a witness in court. The host acknowledges that giving evidence can be unfamiliar and potentially traumatic for most people, as it requires stepping outside of one's comfort zone. The episode delves into the skills and preparation needed to provide compelling and convincing evidence as a...

Join Michael as he reflects on the profound words of his brother, who once said that trust is the foundation of any relationship. He explores the significance of trust in his work with clients, particularly in the context of helping children and families. Michael talks about the lack of trust in various relationships, such as between politicians and the electorate, and employers and employees, emp...

Michael explores the challenges of remaining calm and composed during cross-examination in a courtroom setting. The episode emphasises the importance of self-control and managing emotions while giving evidence, highlighting the need to maintain a balanced state of mind. Michael provides insights on how to prepare and practice effectively, as well as the significance of showcasing knowledge, skills...

In this episode titled "Guarantees," Michael explores the human desire for security and certainty in various aspects of life. From infancy to adulthood, we seek the reassurance of love and stability from our caregivers. The episode delves into how inconsistent and unpredictable parenting can have long-lasting effects on individuals, hindering their ability to cope with uncertainty. It also discuss...

This episode explores the importance of finding a balance between predictability and surprise in our lives. Drawing parallels between storytelling and real life, Michael emphasises the need for unpredictability in books and films to keep us engaged and captivated. However, in our own lives, we crave a certain level of predictability and stability to feel in control. The episode delves into the sig...

Michael explores the concept of influence and its impact on our thoughts, beliefs, and actions. Drawing from personal experiences and examples, he highlights the importance of being aware of the information we consume and the people we allow to influence us. This episode emphasises the need to question and challenge our own thoughts and seek out reliable and qualified sources of influence that ali...

Michael shares a personal experience that made him reflect on the value of time and the way we often take it for granted. This incident prompted him to contemplate the brevity of life and the importance of making the most of our time. Michael discusses how many people live for the weekends, not truly enjoying the weekdays because they are not doing what they love. The episode encourages listeners...

Join Michael as he explores the significance of our childhood experiences in shaping our personalities and lives. He emphasises the role of parents in a child's development, highlighting how their actions and behaviours convey important messages to children. The episode delves into the impact of consistent eye contact, warmth, and love from parents, as well as the consequences of exposure to confl...

This episode explores the lasting impact of discriminatory experiences on individuals and communities. Michael discusses how even a single instance of unfair treatment can leave a negative emotional residue, but when discrimination occurs regularly, it can lead to feelings of persecution, anger, and resentment. Michael emphasises the compounding effect of repeated discrimination, which can have de...

In this episode the host of the Incredible Witness Podcast reflects on the demanding nature of being a social worker, drawing a comparison to the character Reed from the Fantastic Four who could stretch his limbs. The host discusses the constant need for social workers to go above and beyond to safeguard children and families, often facing uncomfortable and challenging tasks. They highlight the im...

Michael addresses the challenges faced by children's social workers and the lack of time and support they have to do quality work. He highlights the pressure and workload that social workers face, often taking their work home and sacrificing personal time. He discusses the emotional and mental exhaustion of dealing with multiple cases simultaneously, likening it to a headless chicken running aroun...

When encountering problems in life it is advantageous to know when getting ready to fight a situation exactly what it is you can change and what you can’t. Knowing what is a worthwhile challenge and a sensible and well-placed use of your efforts, directly affects the effectiveness of your influence.  KEY TAKEAWAYS  When considering pushing back it is best to examine exactly how much influence you...

Michael explains the trauma response, the body and mind long-term reaction to distressing events, and its particular impact on young children including their vulnerability at a very early age to abuse.  KEY TAKEAWAYS When something occurs of particular impact to your senses, the impact is registered first at the brain stem, where your basic regulatory functions reside.  Young children do not yet h...

If you want to achieve your goals, you can create complete commitment in yourself by removing your means of retreat. Michael points out that winning is easier if it is your only option.  KEY TAKEAWAYS  Forego a ‘Plan B’. It is an acknowledgement of the voices of naysayers.  Keeping in place a tactic for retreat draws time from your effort towards your goal. BEST MOMENTS ‘Napoleon Hill states that...

We all make mistakes, but when we fail to correct a mistake, we have just made yet another error. Michael explains to avoid a cascade of constant errors, always take responsibility for your mistakes, hold yourself to account and constantly be willing to learn.  KEY TAKEAWAYS  Fix and learn from your mistakes to reach a momentum of constant improvement.  Expect mistakes and loss as this is all part...

Michael recalls his first experience in the witness box and explains that when it comes to testifying in the family court you really are all on your own. KEY TAKEAWAYS Be prepared and ready for court. No one can come to your rescue in the middle of proceedings. The court is always under great pressure to complete cases and move on to the next one. It is essential to listen to every question carefu...

Most people are concerned with what others think of them but in this episode, Michael tackles how you should alter your mindset to honour what you think of yourself primarily and pursue the goals that you desire and are relevant to your needs, and how this can give you an advantage in the court setting.  KEY TAKEAWAYS  It is unwise to be concerned about external things and waste time and effort tr...