In this episode of Listening First, Patrick and Ben sit down with Chris and Denise Arthey to explore what it means to rebuild a life after unimaginable trauma.

Following a catastrophic motorcycle accident caused by a drunk driver, both Chris and Denise became above-knee amputees, forcing them to confront a future radically different from the one they had planned. Their conversation begins in the immediate aftermath of the crash, when survival - not recovery - was the only focus.

From there, they reflect on the long and often difficult journey of rehabilitation, sharing how trauma challenged their sense of identity and required them to redefine self-worth beyond physical ability, achievement, and independence.

Chris and Denise discuss the pivotal moments that shaped their recovery: finding hope through the example of others, setting meaningful personal goals, and learning to trust the rehabilitation process even when progress felt frustratingly slow. They also speak candidly about the role of faith, community, and their marriage in helping them navigate pain, uncertainty, and despair.

One of the most powerful parts of the conversation centres on forgiveness. Chris and Denise share why they chose to forgive the drunk driver responsible for the accident, and how that decision became an essential part of their healing journey. Eighteen years later, their perspective is both practical and profound. Rather than asking, “Why did this happen to us?”, they focus on a different question: “What happens next?”

This episode offers a thoughtful and deeply human exploration of resilience, identity, recovery, and hope - providing valuable insights for anyone facing adversity or supporting someone through it.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

03:46 The Accident and Its Aftermath

07:13 Early Days of Recovery

11:30 Transition from Survival to Determination

16:50 The Role of Peer Support

22:08 Strengthening Relationships Through Trauma

27:24 Faith and Community in Recovery

30:53 Finding Comfort in Community and Faith

33:20 The Importance of Individualized Goals

37:40 Navigating Identity and Perception

48:11 Acceptance and Forgiveness in Recovery

52:49 Messages of Hope for New Journeys

Information and Support:

Headway - The Brain Injury Association

The Limbless Association

Day One Trauma Support

Mind

Resources:

Highway 35: Meeting Disaster Head-on with Hope

Chris and Denise Arthey's Website

© 2026 Patrick Boyd and Ben Marram. All Rights Reserved.

In this insightful conversation, Jacko shares his journey through traumatic brain injury, the importance of breathing techniques in recovery, and his ambitious challenge to raise awareness and one million pounds for two brain injury charities. Discover how slowing down, mindfulness, and understanding the science behind breath work can transform recovery and performance.

00:00Introduction to Jacko's Journey

03:08The Impact of Brain Injury on Life

05:44Finding Meaning in Adversity

08:12The Role of Breathing in Recovery

10:34Understanding Symptoms and Their Evolution

12:43The Cumulative Effects of Head Injuries

15:19Navigating the Unknowns of Recovery

17:37Rehabilitation: A Different Perspective

20:07Identity Shift After Injury

22:57Exploring Breath Work and Its Benefits

24:58The Importance of Slowing Down

29:45The Journey to Writing 'Breathe Smarter, Run Stronger'

33:31Understanding the Science of Breathwork

39:10Breathwork in Everyday Life and Rehabilitation

42:14Jacko's Marathon Challenge for Brain Injury Charities

48:36The Essence of Rehabilitation and Recovery

49:19Exploring the Challenge Ahead

50:45The Importance of Slowing Down and Breathing

Resources and Links:

• https://thebreathrunningcoach.com/mission-in-possible
• Author of ‘Breathe Smarter, Run Stronger’ - order here
• Headway UK
• Head for Change | Brain Health & Injury Support in Sport

© 2026 Patrick Boyd & Ben Marram. All Rights Reserved.

Safeguarding - it is a daily, ongoing process, not just a one-time action; and in doing so, building connections and trust is more important than striving for perfection. These are just a couple of nuggets of safeguarding wisdom discussed in this episode of Listening First.

Patrick and Ben speak with Linda Sayers, a social worker and safeguarding expert, discussing the evolving landscape of safeguarding in rehabilitation. Topics include the principles of safeguarding, legislation changes, collaboration between private and statutory sectors, and practical strategies for effective safeguarding practices.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

03:55 Linda Sayers: A Journey Through Social Work

09:45 Understanding Safeguarding in Rehabilitation

15:01 The Evolution of Safeguarding Legislation

20:20 The Importance of Connection in Social Work

27:22 Navigating Inconsistencies in Safeguarding Practices

29:10 The Evolving Landscape of Safeguarding Legislation

31:44 The Role of Private Sector in Safeguarding

35:52 Building Effective Partnerships in Safeguarding

46:22 Understanding Myths and Realities in Safeguarding

50:33 The Essence of Rehabilitation and Recovery

51:52 Introduction to Professional Curiosity and Safeguarding

54:14 The Importance of Collaboration in Safeguarding

Resources

Section 42 of the Care Act - https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2014/23/section/42

Working Together to Safeguard Children 2026 - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-together-to-safeguard-children--2

Frontal Lobe Paradox Field Guide by Ben Marram - https://theflpfieldguide.com

Linda Sayers on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/linda-sayers-0bb66551/

© 2026, Patrick Boyd & Dr Ben Marram. All Rights Reserved.

In this episode, family therapist Dave Kenny joins Patrick and Ben to share insights into systemic psychotherapy, otherwise known as Family Therapy, its relevance in recovery and rehabilitation, and how understanding family dynamics can improve support systems. Discover practical techniques, the importance of trust, and how therapy adapts to individual family needs.

Resources:

Family Experience of Brain Injury by Mark Holloway

Association of Family Therapy (AFT) - https://www.aft.org.uk/

UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) - https://www.ukcp.org.uk/

Newby Psychological Services - https://www.newbypsychologicalservices.co.uk/

© 2026, Patrick Boyd & Dr Ben Marram. All Rights Reserved.

In part 2 of this 2-part series, the conversation delves further into the complexities of fundamental dishonesty within the legal system, particularly in relation to rehabilitation and recovery. Lois Norris, a barrister, shares her insights on the importance of thoroughness, transparency, and integrity in clinical and legal practice. The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by clients in navigating their claims and the emotional toll of being accused of dishonesty. The episode emphasises the need for professionals to maintain a balance between scrutiny and support for their clients, ensuring that the process remains fair and just for all parties involved.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Part 2

01:33 Understanding Inconsistency and Honesty

04:21 The Emotional Journey of Claimants

07:47 Navigating Integrity and Transparency

11:36 The Role of Scrutiny in Rehabilitation

16:39 The Balance of Fairness in Legal Processes

21:54 Future Directions in Addressing Dishonesty

26:31 Rehabilitation as Evidence in Legal Cases

31:22 Misconceptions About the Legal Profession

36:27 Introduction to Thoroughness and Transparency

37:19 The Role of Detail in Professional Practice

38:22 The Importance of Authenticity and Integrity

38:45 Reflections on Imposter Syndrome and Mentorship

39:59 Closing Thoughts

Credits:

Patrick Boyd - Co-host/Producer

Dr Ben Marram - Co-host/Producer

Lois Norris - Guest

©2026 Patrick Boyd & Ben Marram. All rights Reserved.

In this episode of Listening First, Patrick and Ben speak with barrister Lois Norris for part 1 of their 2-part series which explores the complex topic of fundamental dishonesty in personal injury claims. Lois shares her insights on how dishonesty is defined within the legal framework (in the UK), referencing a landmark case involving edge sorting at a casino that reached the Supreme Court. The discussion delves into the nuances of what constitutes dishonesty, emphasising the importance of an objective standard based on societal perceptions. Lois explains the distinction between general dishonesty and fundamental dishonesty, highlighting how the latter can significantly impact the outcome of a claim, including the potential for dismissal and financial repercussions for claimants.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Lois Norris and Her Journey into Law

06:52 Understanding the Role of Barristers vs. Solicitors

09:33 Defining Dishonesty in Legal Terms

12:41 The Concept of Fundamental Dishonesty

15:43 Consequences of Fundamental Dishonesty

17:39 Real-Life Implications and Case Examples

20:49 The Impact of Memory and Inconsistency in Claims

23:59 Social Media's Role in Perceptions of Dishonesty

26:54 The Human Element in Rehabilitation and Recovery

29:54 White Coat Syndrome and Its Implications

37:56 Exploring Dishonesty in Law

39:06 Anticipating the Role of a Barrister

39:33 Outro/Credits

Credits:

Patrick Boyd - Co-host/Producer

Dr Ben Marram - Co-host/Producer

Lois Norris - Guest

©2026 Patrick Boyd & Ben Marram. All rights Reserved.

"Music can do far more than you think." - Elizabeth Nightingale

In this episode, Ben and Patrick explore the transformative power of music therapy, particularly neurologic music therapy (NMT), in rehabilitation. Elizabeth Nightingale, a neurologic music therapist, shares her insights on how music can facilitate cognitive, emotional, and physical healing. The conversation delves into various techniques used in NMT, the neuroscience behind music's impact on the brain, and the importance of integrating music therapy within multidisciplinary teams. Elizabeth emphasises the significance of personalising music therapy to each client's unique experiences and cultural backgrounds, highlighting its role in fostering connections and enhancing overall wellbeing.

Elizabeth is an experienced Neurologic Music Therapist, bringing over ten years of specialist clinical practice within acute, inpatient, and community neurorehabilitation. She has worked with both children and adults across a wide range of settings, and has expertise in acquired brain injury, cerebral palsy, disorders of consciousness, and aphasia. She is a registered Neurologic Music Therapy® Fellow affiliate of the Academy of Neurologic Music Therapy® and is trained in the Music Therapy Assessment Tool for Awareness in Disorders of Consciousness (MATADOC). Since 2018, Elizabeth has worked as an Expert Witness, drawing on her wide-ranging clinical experience to identify and cost appropriate NMT provision and specialist equipment for children and adults with neurological diagnoses. Alongside her clinical work, she actively contributes to the profession through several voluntary roles, including positions on the NMT™ Academy Advisory Council, Acquired Brain Injury London, and as Learning Disability Network Coordinator for the British Association for Music Therapy (BAMT).

A few key links:

1. Neurologic Music Therapy® website for those interested to learn more about NMT™, the research base, and training options: www.nmtacademy.co
2. Music and the Brain visual: https://www.merriammusic.com/research/the-neuro-plastic-side-of-melodies-how-music-rewires-the-brains-cognitive-sockets/
3. Example video of NMT™ sensorimotor techniques in action for a patient who sustained a TBI: https://youtu.be/cq8fv3Hpoao?si=gWmgnB0I8yeNQ_dr
4. Nightingale NMT™ website: www.nightingalenmt.co.uk
5. NMT™ at the heart of rehab visual: https://www.instagram.com/p/DReX9bNDXoG/?igsh=MW83a3R1a3JuNmRweA==

Guest

Elizabeth Nightingale, Neurologic Music Therapist, Nightingale NMT

www.listeningfirstpod.com

© 2025 Patrick Boyd & Dr Ben Marram. All rights reserved.

"Mental capacity is decision-specific."

In this episode, Patrick and Ben explore the complexities of the Mental Capacity Act (UK) and its implications for rehabilitation and recovery, with guests Dr Oli Bekarma and Eleanor Tallon.

They discuss the principles of the Act, the role of professionals in assessing capacity, and the impact of emotions on decision-making. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding mental capacity as decision-specific and context-dependent, while also addressing the challenges faced by practitioners in this field. The episode concludes with reflections on best practices and the need for continuous learning in mental capacity practice.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests

03:38 The Role of Social Workers and Psychologists

05:16 Defining Mental Capacity

06:52 The Presumption of Capacity

09:21 Unwise Decisions vs. Lack of Capacity

11:18 Navigating Complex Decisions

13:56 The Importance of Context in Assessments

15:30 Building Rapport in Assessments

16:42 The Impact of Executive Dysfunction

18:55 Philosophical Considerations in Decision Making

20:29 Conclusion and Reflections

26:42 Emotional Influences on Decision-Making

29:02 Navigating Assessment Anxiety

30:54 The Role of Hope in Capacity Assessments

33:11 Understanding Capacity: Beyond Binary Thinking

36:58 The Burden of Decision-Making in Assessments

39:57 Pet Hates and Pro Tips in Mental Capacity Assessments

Guests:

Dr Oliver Bekarma, Clinical Psychologist of Clarity Psychology

Eleanor Tallon, Independent Social Worker of MCA Professional

www.listeningfirstpod.com

© Patrick Boyd & Dr Ben Marram. All rights reserved.