Access to Inspiration

In episode 124 we delve into the world of outdoor education with Neil Wightwick, a leading figure in driving national policy in Scotland to make outdoor education accessible to all. Discover how outdoor environments can become powerful classrooms and how physical challenges can foster growth and curiosity in students. Neil shares his passion for varied outdoor activities and recounts his own experiences, such as rowing across the Atlantic, which taught him the importance of resilience and the power of nature. Neil also discusses with host, Sue Stockdale his work in enabling young people to engage with the outdoors, particularly those from marginalised communities.
About Neil Wightwick
Neil Wightwick is a modern-day explorer and tireless advocate for adventurous education, whose remarkable adventures have taken him to the farthest reaches of the globe. With a resume that includes rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, scaling unclimbed peaks in Patagonia, and crossing the vast expanse of the Kalahari Desert on foot, Neil's thirst for adventure knows no bounds. Throughout his career, Neil has been driven by a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of outdoor experiences, particularly for young people. He is currently serving as the CEO of the Scottish Advisory Panel for Outdoor Education and Head of Glasgow City Council's Outdoor Education Services. Through his leadership roles, he is shaping the landscape of outdoor education, ensuring that future generations have the chance to explore, learn, and grow through adventurous experiences in the great outdoors.
Connect with Neil Wightwick viaLinkedIn.
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Key Quotes

• "I like to have variety, and I like to learn from all of those different experiences."
• "The solutions and the challenges of today and tomorrow aren't going to be solved by students who have learned how to regurgitate information in a test."
• “If I don't get outside and I don't have some kind of physical activity, it does start to affect my mental well-being."
• “There are a number of ways that outdoor learning and adventurous education can interact in really positive ways with the digital world."
• “We're always coming full circle to appreciating the value of silence and conversation and experience in present time rather than looking at technology at the same time."

Time Stamps
[02:15] Adventure in everyday life.
[06:03] Adventurous education and experiential learning.
[09:24] Outdoors as a mental tonic.
[13:55] Impact of adventurous learning.
[17:13] Outdoor education impact on society.
[25:35] Digital detox in expeditions.
[29:23] Small steps lead to adventures.
[30:52] Adventure and environmental impact.
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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra
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In episode 123 we explore the world of sports and mindset mastery with Danielle McDonough, a former professional ice hockey player turned mindset coach. Danielle shares her journey from the ice rink to coaching, emphasising the importance of overcoming self-doubt to achieve peak performance. Host Sue Stockdale talks to Danielle about athlete psychology, imposter syndrome, and practical strategies for reshaping our thinking in challenging situations.
About Danielle McDonough
Danielle McDonough started skating at age 4 and playing hockey at age 5, and later received a BA in Sociology from Providence College while on full athletic scholarship for ice hockey. She played in the National Women's Hockey League (WNHL) for 2 years and professionally in Lugano, Switzerland for 2 years. After retiring from professional sport Danielle gained a MA in Sport & Exercise Psychology and is now CEO of Peak Performance Training LLC working with athletes, coaches, and parents on the mental side of performance. She is the official Mental Skills Coach for the USA Hockey National Development Camp and author of The Empowered Athlete—Self-Confidence, Self-Acceptance, and Self-Worth: An Athlete’s Guide to Excellence.
Connect with Danielle McDonough: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | get her free e-book
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Key Quotes

• "As soon as I step on the ice, I'm just free in a way. I really love that about it."
• "I like the full contact aspect. I like the hitting piece."
• "Your mind can sabotage everything. It doesn't matter how physically fit or capable you are. If your mind isn't right, you can talk yourself out of everything"
• "I thought I was the only person on the entire face of this earth who was experiencing these things."
• "Diaphragmatic breathing is so powerful and so important and can change your state of mind and the way that you're feeling in your body in as little as three deep breaths."
• "If we're not making mistakes, if we're not failing, then ultimately we're not really growing because we learn in making these mistakes."

Time Stamps
04:40 - The Only Girl in an All-Boys Team
05:11 - Forming a Girls Team and Being Recruited
07:57 - Mental Challenges and Imposter Syndrome
08:17 - Psyching Out and Overcoming Mental Hurdles
12:41 - Transitioning to Professional Sports and Pressure
15:20 - Identifying with Imposter Syndrome
16:40 - From Professional Athlete to Mindset Coach
20:02 - Breathing as a Fundamental Tool
21:59 - Visualising Success and Overcoming Fear of Failure
29:10 - Using Mental Skills in Personal Life
31:12 - Top Tips for Mindset Management in Sports and Business
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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra
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In episode 122, host Sue Stockdale explores the delicate balance between commerce and conservation in the world of forestry with guest Roderick Aitken. As a fifth-generation family business in Scotland importing tropical wood, Roddy shares insights on sustainable practices and the collective responsibility we have towards the planet, discusses the importance of protecting precious ecosystems while meeting the demand for exotic woods.
About Roderick Aitken
Roderick has a degree in forest management from The University of Aberdeen. He has spent one year working in Malaysia’s forest and sawmilling sectors, then two years with BSW timber in Scotland. He joined Gilmour & Aitken in 2005 and is now Operations Director. Roderick is the principal buyer of tropical timbers for Gilmour & Aitken. He has carried out responsible purchasing audit work within West Africa, Far East and Guyana, traveling to these areas regularly. Roderick is a sailor and kayaker in summer, climber and skier in winter and enjoys being outdoors. The more remote and wilder the terrain, the better.
Find out more about Roderick Aitken at the website, and watch the video about Sustainable Forestry
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Time Stamps
[01:53] Sustainability in tropical timber industry.
[09:35] Long-term sustainability and traceability.
[14:14] Sustainable tropical logging practices.
[16:03] Hardwood for marine industry.
[22:05] Positive impacts of sustainable forestry.
[27:39] Maintaining supplier relationships.
[34:43] Materials for sustainable construction.
Key Quotes

• “It isn't just always profit maximisation. It's a long-term sustainability goal as well.”
• "I get quite frustrated when people think that they're two different things, economic sustainability and environmental sustainability."
• “In the size of a football field, you're only taking two or three trees. So it's very light touch logging."
• "For every cubic metre of Greenheart arrived in the UK and used on a job, 1.24 tonne of carbon is being stored in the Guyanese forests as it's regrowing."
• “I think that relationship is really important. Supplier and buyer, you both have to be successful for it to work.”
• "Without trust, a lot of the tropical timber operation will fall apart."

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If you are enjoying this and would like to support us then Buy Me A Coffee
Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra
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In this episode host Sue Stockdale talks to Arild Nydegger Øvre-Eide and Gyrid Dahl, from Øvre-Eide farm in Bergen, Norway. Arild, the fifth-generation owner of a small farm, discusses his decision to become a farmer and how his father's support played a role in his journey. Gyrid who works at the farm explains what motivated her to change career from being a hairdresser to learning how to run a farm. The episode also explores Arild's surprising role as a teacher in a local prison and why tradition is important in communities.
Find out more about Øvre-Eide Farm.
Key Quotes

• "We have this possibility to keep up the farming absolutely everywhere in Norway."
• "If we want to live off of the farm, we have to diversify."
• "In Norway, we spend a lot of money in our prison system and especially in education."
• "We have some school classes with special need kids that come here once a week to get a break from the classroom."
• "I am very happy when we can share our farm with other people."
• "I have a big hope for the future for the Norwegian farming, but you must try to do something else. You cannot continue on the same track as, for example, your father and grandfather has done."
• "You have to get out of your comfort zone. to achieve bigger things."

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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

In this guest-hosted episode Clive Steeper from episode 1 talks to engineer, physician, and former astronaut Dr. Robert Thirsk about the preparation and training needed for astronauts to operate effectively on space missions, and how these skills are also relevant for leadership more generally.
Robert reflects on training for astronauts, non-technical skills in space missions, adapting back to life on Earth, providing healthcare on deep space missions, AI-enabled technologies for space exploration, and the benefits of the space programme for society.
About Dr. Robert Thirsk
Dr. Robert Thirsk was born and raised in western Canada. He received degrees in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Calgary and from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Bob also holds a Doctorate of Medicine from McGill University and a Master of Business Administration from the MIT Sloan School of Management.
Bob has flown on two space missions as a member of the Canadian Space Agency’s astronaut corps. He first flew aboard the space shuttle Columbia in 1996 with six international crewmates as part of the Life and Microgravity Spacelab Mission. His second flight in 2009 was a six-month expedition aboard the International Space Station. Bob and his five Station crew mates performed multidisciplinary research, robotic operations and maintenance of spacecraft systems and payloads.
Following his astronaut career, Bob served as a vice-president of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and then as Chancellor of the University of Calgary. He remains in close contact with the Canadian Space Agency, his former employer, to pursue a leadership role for Canada in the delivery of remote health care to astronauts who will someday venture to deep space on daring missions of exploration.
Find out more about Dr Robert Thirsk viawebsite | Twitter | LinkedIn
Key Quotes

• "I grew up in a magical time. I grew up in the 1960s."
• "Training is our currency of trade."
• “The difference between a good astronaut and a great astronaut is mastery of those non-technical skills."
• "Failure is not something to be hidden or backed away from. Astronauts embrace failure."
• “As the space age opens up and we have the opportunity to fly a more diverse group of people in space, we need to start flying communicators and artists."
• "I hope that my legacy will be that I brought great benefit to the world. I helped make the world a better place."

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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra
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In podcast episode 119, Reanne Olivier, co-founder of Africa Matters Initiative talks to Sue Stockdale about how her first journey to South Africa was sparked by her parents' curiosity and exploration of the continent. This led her to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about Africa, and ultimately shape her passion for making a difference.
By immersing herself in the diverse cultures and communities of Africa, Reanne gained a deeper understanding of the continent and its people, allowing her to build relationships, learn from others, and collaborate to create an initiative that is empowering African youth.
About Reanne Olivier
Reanne is the co-founder and CEO of Africa Matters Initiative, a youth-led organisation dedicated to empowering and upskilling African youth. As the CEO, she has led successful youth programs promoting transformative leadership and community advancement across 22 African countries. With over a decade of experience in nonprofit program management across Africa, she specialises in designing and developing highly effective learning materials for young people. Reanne previously served as a Program Manager for Princeton in Africa and as the USA Director for Stellenbosch University’s Development & Alumni Relations Office.
Key Quotes

• "Africa is more than what the Western media was portraying."
• "There's a welcoming nature of the African continent, of African people, that allows you to feel at home, regardless of your race, your gender, your background.”
• "Human beings are literally the same. They're just in different locations. They just speak different languages and they have different colours."
• “We have been able to impact over 6, 000 young people across the continent.”
• “Community for me is really, really important. Again, that's what has moulded me to be the person that I am today.”

Find out more about Africa Matters Inititiave atWebsite | Twitter |LinkedIn | Facebook
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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

In episode 118 Sue Stockdale interviews Australian adventurer Kate Leeming. Kate has cycled almost 100,000km completing major journeys around the world. She became the first person to cycle an unbroken line from Africa's most westerly to its most easterly point. Sue explores the motivations behind Kate's adventures and the impact she aims to make through her expeditions. The episode also covers topics such as education for sustainable development, the role of women in community development, and the physical and mental benefits of cycling.
About Kate Leeming
As an explorer/adventurer, Kate has cycled almost 100,000km on her major journeys. She has successfully completed expeditions on all seven continents and attained four world firsts. In 2010 she became the first person to cycle an unbroken line from Africa’s most westerly to its most easterly point - from Senegal to Somalia cycling 22,040km over ten months through twenty countries. For her achievements in exploration, adventure and community work, Kate has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of Education degree from The University of Western Australia, a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and the prestigious Spirit of Adventure Award from the Australian Geographic Society.
Connect with Kate Leeming via LinkedIn : Breaking the Cycle Foundation: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter
Time Stamps
[00:01:24] Cycling across Australia.
[00:05:14] Making a difference through exploration.
[00:09:39] Importance of education in poverty.
[00:14:46] Real Tennis - the original game.
[00:22:02] Dealing with support teams.
[00:25:12] Finding funding for filmmaking.
[00:30:29] Trying new things and self-confidence.
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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra
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In episode 117 former guest Dr. Nashater Deu Solheim (episode 49) talks to Sue Stockdale. Sue discusses her experiences as an adventurer and athlete, focusing on her expedition to the Magnetic North Pole. She talks about her initial curiosity and decision to apply for the expedition, as well as the challenges she faced in raising funds and preparing physically and mentally. The conversation also explores themes of building safety within a team, curiosity and resilience.
About Sue Stockdale
Sue Stockdale is an adventurer, coach, author, and TEDx speaker. In 1996, Sue became the first British woman to reach the magnetic North Pole. Sue's travels span over 70 countries, including deserts and polar regions. Beyond adventures, Sue is a sought-after executive coach to CEO’s and leaders. With nine books published, including her memoir "Explore: A Life of Adventure," Sue Stockdale is a true trailblazer.
Connect with Sue Stockdale via website: LinkedIn; Twitter
TimeStamps
[00:01:57] Planning an Arctic expedition.
[00:06:13] Preparation for sponsorship.
[00:06:54] Mental preparation for challenges.
[00:13:19] Unexpected situations and chaos.
[00:17:41] Sticking with difficulty and getting through.
[00:22:11] The importance of psychological contracts.
[00:24:11] Teamwork and camaraderie in battle.
[00:27:13] Vulnerability and authenticity.
[00:31:24] Micro actions in times of crisis.
[00:34:15] Free flow and preparation.
Key Quotes

• "When you voice your far and realize that other people share that fear, suddenly it diminishes."
• "I always think when the unexpected happens, when you're winging it, so to speak, and your heart's racing, it's how you manage your emotions that really makes the difference."
• "I'm a great believer that in the end, we probably don't really wing much in life because we're using our earlier experiences, even if they're not directly relevant or exactly the same, we've built some skillset or confidence or mindset that helps us in these situations that we hadn't planned for."

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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/access-to-inspiration--4156820/support.

This episode explores the concept of sliding doors moments and emphasises the importance of trusting oneself and finding stillness and clarity in life. Host Sue Stockdale interviews singer and entertainer Bruce Parker. They discuss Bruce's love for soul and Motown music, which he grew up with in Inglewood, Los Angeles. Bruce shares his experiences of touring in China and encountering a dangerous situation with the Chinese triads.
About Bruce Parker
Bruce Parker is known as The California Soul Man, and has enthralled audiences around the world, working with legendary music icons such as Chaka Khan, Debbie Harry, and Michael Jackson. Connect with Bruce Parker on LinkedIn.
Key Quotes

• "That was my first real experience of having been on stage, and something touched me at that moment, and realising, wow, there's a gift here."
• "I never graduated. I was just pulled toward this music"
• "We're being treated like royalty. We're given five star hotels. We're being driven around in Mercedes limousines."
• "I was told, you do what Kobayashi say, or nothing your family or your government ever be able to do to find you".
• "We were given everything. It was this incredible situation. But having been told that by Kobayashi, I knew we were really, really in trouble".
• "I call myself a spiritual person. No matter what the situation, The answers are always there"
• "Be still, be quiet, and listen".

Time Stamps
00:00:13 Sliding doors moments shape us.
00:06:01 Following your passion is important.
00:13:02 Trapped in China, no escape.
00:25:32 Negotiation for freedom in China.
00:36:03 Resourcefulness leads to new opportunities.
00:38:26 Listen to your inner voice.
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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra

Sue Stockdale speaks with Georgina Bark, also known as Bo, a dry stone waller. Bo shares her journey of leaving an office job behind to pursue a career outdoors and why she enjoys her work. Bo emphasises that problem-solving is a crucial aspect of her job, both in building walls and repairing them and offers advice to listeners, encouraging them to pursue their passions.
Georgina Bark is based in Gloucestershire and an Advanced Certificate holder and member of the Dry Stone Walling Association.
Key Quotes

• "You can use hammer on Cotswold stone and the sandstones and the limestones, but there's no point trying to hammer a big granite boulder because you won't win that battle."
• "If I come back and drive past in another 10-20 years it should be here unless I've done something catastrophically wrong"
• "It's really satisfying to see people learning, people taking something in. It's nice learning a skill they've maybe never dreamed of doing even and seeing their pride in what they've done at the end of the weekend."
• "The grants for farmers to repair walls are so low that a lot of farm walls go into disrepair and it's a lot cheaper to put a roll of stock netting round."
• "Sometimes you get in a bit of a rut with a few stones and that's maybe the time to walk away, play with the dog, go and have a cup of tea."
• 'I'm always learning, always something different, different sites, different scenery, getting to go all around the country, working with different people sometimes, different stones."

Time Stamps
00:00:20 Traditional craft of dry stone walling.
00:05:08 Dry stone walling is a craft that requires hands-on experience and a keen eye for judging and using the available stone.
00:10:19 Building dry stone walls sustainably.
00:14:40 Opportunities for collaboration in walling.
00:23:11 Problem-solving is crucial in wall building.
00:24:29 Learning and adapting is key.
00:29:30 Follow your passion and do what makes you happy.
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Producer: Sue Stockdale
Sound Editor: Matias De Ezcurra