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 present and intentionally planning time for recovery are not just wellness habits but essential leadership skills. Through practical mindfulness strategies and real-world examples from sport and business, they highlight the power of honest feedback, gratitude, and simple rituals in cultivating a culture where people and teams can adapt and thrive.

If you’re ready to build stronger resilience for yourself and your organisation, this episode delivers actionable insights you won’t want to miss.

Key Moments:

00:01:04 — Rusty shares the emotional reflections parents and coaches share when asked about teachers and mentors who shaped their growth.

00:06:58 — Insights from a former Google X executive explore how AI and wealth redistribution may redefine the future of work.

00:10:39 — Strategies for sustaining resilience when addressing the realities of career changes and job market uncertainty.

00:11:53 — The importance of momentum as a core element of resilience—emphasising continual forward movement.

00:18:02 — Exploring mindfulness as a driver for enhanced organisational performance and profitability.

00:22:19 — The role of simple rituals and engaging camp environments in fostering deeper connection and presence in children.

00:26:11 — Navigating the emotional complexities of stepping back from leadership while empowering others to lead.

00:40:31 — Embracing personal challenges through exposure to inspiring environments and honest, constructive feedback to stimulate growth.

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

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-driven leadership looks like in practice.

If you’re keen to get practical insights into building more resilient, connected, and human-centred cultures - whether in organisations or everyday life - this episode is for you.

In this episode:

[00:01:15] Simon reflects on attending a mindfulness golf retreat with strangers, showing how stepping away from routine brings clarity, connection, and a mental reset.

[00:04:38] The common challenge of quieting the mind, and how storytelling and guided mindfulness offer practical ways to find calm and focus.

[00:05:30] Discussing nature’s restorative power and how time outdoors builds resilience and boosts well-being.

[00:06:37] The value of informal, non-work activities in organisations to strengthen team bonds, boost performance, and create belonging.

[00:12:23] Simon shares a touching story of meeting his late father’s friend at the retreat—and how mindfulness brought him clearer emotional and personal direction.

[00:14:32] Journaling and gratitude as growth tools—Simon explains how illustrating his retreat journal and daily reflection helped him reconnect with creativity and appreciation.

[00:18:46] Simon and Rusty’s visit to the BRIT School highlights its vibrant learning culture, strong leadership, engaged students, and low phone use as an inspiring model.

[00:40:31] The ripple effect of gratitude—listeners are invited to reach out to someone who inspired them, showing how a simple message can spark lasting positive change.

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

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 diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. After undergoing intensive chemotherapy, Sam made an inspiring return to professional rugby, a testament to his resilience, discipline, and deep self-awareness.

Forced to retire at 25 due to concussion-related injuries, Sam has since dedicated himself to high-performance coaching, helping others unlock performance through a human-first lens.

The conversation explores pushing limits, reframing trauma, and the power of play, intention, and integrity. Most importantly, Sam’s story is a compelling reminder of how having the right mindset can foster resilience and self-awareness, and as in his case, turn adversity into strength and purpose.

Find out more about Sam’s journey and connect with him here:

Instagram: @samleeming10

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-leeming-b55550109/

Website: https://samleemingperformance.com

In this episode:

00:00:00 – Introduction to Sam Leeming: Simon and Rusty set the tone for a conversation on resilience, introducing Sam’s journey through major life challenges.

00:03:44 – Sam’s Early Setbacks: Sam shares how recurring injuries and internal pressure impacted his rugby career and self-worth.

00:05:54 – Cancer & Recovery Journey: At 23, Sam faces non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, undergoes chemo, and makes a powerful return to rugby, balancing mental and physical struggles.

00:08:25 – Family’s Role: Sam highlights the impact of his dad’s tough but supportive love in shaping his resilience.

00:14:03 – Pushing Past the Limit: His “never enough” mindset led to overexertion, including a seizure during cancer, teaching him the value of rest.

00:16:19 – Power of Vulnerability: Sharing his emotional journey created deeper connections and redefined vulnerability as strength.

00:21:49 – Choice & Mindset after Trauma: Sam reflects on using trauma as fuel for growth, not a limiting identity.

00:26:14 – Coaching & Helping Others: Now a performance coach, Sam draws on his story to help high performers shift mindset and improve mental skills.

00:32:08 – Tools for Performance: Talks practical tools like intention-setting, self-awareness, and integrity that guide both his past and current work.

00:41:04 – Recovery & Playfulness: Emphasizes world-class recovery and playful habits as keys to sustainable performance and well-being.

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

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 intentional reflection can strengthen focus and support a more grounded deep work practice.

Together, they unpack the tension between staying constantly connected and the challenge of truly switching off—especially in a world where digital engagement feels essential. Their discussion is a thoughtful reminder that resilience doesn’t require massive change; it often begins with small, deliberate choices.

Whether you're curious about digital boundaries, looking to improve focus, or exploring ways to live more intentionally, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement to help you bounce back stronger.

In this episode:

00:00 Simon’s phone-free day: How unplugging from technology and reconnecting with nature brought a sense of peace—despite the initial anxiety.

05:22 Knowing when not to reply to your team: how strategic silence can empower others to problem-solve, foster innovation, and build greater independence.

09:05 Learning to let go: How stepping back, disconnecting from the noise, and allowing yourself to truly relax can create the mental space needed for fresh ideas and unexpected bursts of creativity.

10:01 Rusty’s self-care – How cranial osteopathy sessions allow the ideas to flow.

17:24 Storytelling: how engaging with stories activates the creative brain, draws focus away from everyday distractions, and helps calm the body’s stress response.

25:36 Journaling – How writing enhances memory and can reveal forgotten details.

29:47 Managing digital boundaries: exploring why setting clear limits on phone use at home is essential for fostering healthier relationships, reducing stress, and creating space for genuine connection.

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

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 through burnout and how it led him to rethink traditional work culture - including the decision to implement a four-day week in his business.

Rusty offers powerful insights from the world of sports coaching, drawing comparisons with business leadership and exploring what the two can learn from each other.

If you’re keen to learn more about prioritising wellbeing in your workplace, accepting and embracing change and leading with an openness for new ideas, this episode is for you.

In this episode:

00:02:20 Discussions on leadership exhaustion, guilt-driven overwork, and the lack of prioritising recovery for leaders.

00:05:35 Life stages and energy management - highlighting the need to plan for recovery time.

00:08:41 Regular debriefing of work days to allow the management of team members’ energy, and how leaders need to be kind to themselves to lead well.

00:14:13 Simon shares his top leadership tips: prioritising recovery, surrounding yourself with great people, and acceptance.

00:22:58 Discussion on the importance of mindfulness, flow, and embracing new experiences like sound baths for mental recovery.

00:27:19 Leaning into change and creativity is key for leaders; how resistance can hinder personal and organisational growth.

00:41:31 Why storytelling is vital for communicating these new ideas around leadership within organisations.

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

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 around the organisation's approach to mentoring, personal growth, and creating a supportive, flexible work environment focused on employee wellbeing.

[00:50] Julian Arthur — Technical Director

Julian Arthur joined Tyler Grange in January 2010 from Waterman Group. As Technical Director, he leads on innovation, tackling complex projects as an Ecologist and expert witness. Passionate about green infrastructure, Julian works to balance the needs of wildlife, people, and clients while mentoring the next generation of environmental leaders.

[08:00] Jon Berry — Managing Director

Jon Berry joined Tyler Grange in January 2010 and currently holds the position of Managing Director. With over 25 years of experience as a chartered Landscape Architect and qualified Arboricultural Consultant, Jon is responsible for the business’s performance and strategy. He is deeply committed to living the company’s values and exploring new ideas, innovations, and collaborations.

[29:54] Carly Goodman-Smith — Operations Director

Carly Goodman-Smith, Operations Director and committed Ecologist, joined Tyler Grange in June 2010. Driven by the core values of TG, Carly is passionate about mentoring and continuously improving the business to benefit everyone.

[45:50] James Harmer — Finance Director

James Harmer joined Tyler Grange in May 2019, bringing his financial expertise from the Environment Agency. As Finance Director, his mission is clear: to ensure the business has the cash flow and profitability needed to grow, thrive, and support a happy, successful team.

In this episode:

[00:02:11] How Rusty’s influence and the concept of "dream catching" shape career development at Tyler Grange.

[00:04:03] How Tyler Grange supports self-driven growth, offering personal and professional development opportunities without forcing involvement.

[00:09:02] Examining strategies for building a strong culture and helping employees cope with external challenges.

[00:16:38] The importance of embracing change in an organisation’s identity and its impact on employee alignment and recruitment at Tyler Grange.

[00:34:35] Carly Goodman-Smith talks about how a safe space for sharing ideas and feedback at Tyler Grange fosters resilience.

Connect with Tyler Grange here:

https://tylergrange.co.uk/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/tylergrange/

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

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 leaders across government, healthcare, private equity, and global organisations, including the UK Ministry of Defence, HM Treasury, the NHS, and Canadian diplomats worldwide. With a PhD from Cambridge in the Psychology of Change and top-tier coaching credentials, she helps leaders sharpen their mindset, unlock their potential, and lead with confidence.

Rather than over-complicating things, Elicia’s approach removes the barriers that hold leaders back, helping them focus on what truly matters.

In our conversation, we explore how storytelling can shape organisational leadership, the importance of having continuity of purpose, and the impact of core values on the motivation of leaders and their teams.

In this episode:

00:00 Meet Elicia – social psychologist and high-profile leadership coach.

05:15 Staying true to personal values makes embracing change easier, leading to smoother transitions and greater acceptance.

08:08 Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back - it’s about understanding your personal narratives to recover and grow after setbacks.

13:10 The difference between Values with a capital "V" (organisational and aspirational) and values with a lowercase "v" (personal preferences that shape perception).

17:15 How leaders can use storytelling to embed values into workplace culture.

22:13 Change can feel like a threat to identity and past success - why emphasising continuity helps leaders guide teams through transitions.

27:34 The power of storytelling in shaping transformation and reinforcing unspoken norms and expectations.

40:49 How highlighting certain behaviours and outcomes can attract or deter people, shaping strong and diverse organisations.

51:26 In tough times, discussing shared values can create unity and provide a sense of direction.

Connect with Elicia here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliciarobinson/

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

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 toughest moments.

If you have a suggestion for a topic or guest for 2025, we want to hear from you! Message us via https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/ with your suggestions.

The conversations from this series:

Mindset Transformation: Karim Rushdy on Overcoming Adversity and Embracing a Beginner's Mindset | Episode 21

Triumph Over Trauma: Dave Coleman’s Journey from Marine Commando to Motivational Speaker | Episode 20

Inside ESports: Enhancing Longevity and Life Beyond Professional Gaming with Caleb Cousens | Episode 19

The King of Kent Mike Haynes Discusses Broking, Coaching, and Resilience | Episode 18

The Creative Shift: Building Communities and Embracing New Educational Settings with Kirsty Hunter | Episode 17

The Unseen Effort: Heather Fisher on Resilience, Authenticity, and Finding Purpose | Episode 16

Embracing Playfulness: Unlocking the Power of Social Interaction and Connection with Dr Maarten Koeners & Adam Lusby | Episode 14

Inside the World of Professional Rugby: Rich Bryan on Transition and Resilience | Episode 13

Rethinking Mindfulness: Strategies for Success in Sports and Business with Luke Doherty of Mindful Peak Performance | Episode 12

Nurturing Human Connections: Lessons in Resilience and Community from James Rutter of COOK | Episode 11

In this episode

00:00 Welcome - humbling and enlightening podcast feedback

14:49 How interpersonal disconnect and identity loss impacts relationships.

19:10 Using play to enhance communication and engagement skills.

24:08 How being versatile, resilient, and adaptive is essential in life's uncertainty.

28:01 How to embrace gratitude and have perspective.

31:58 Investing wisely in enhancing team brain skills.

33:58 City jobs - detrimental to mental health?

39:50 Disconnection and identity crisis among pro gamers.

Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/