‘Used to Be’s’ do indeed count! “I used to be…” refers to a past human state, role, condition, identity or experience. Understanding the importance of what or who someone ‘used to be’ can provide valuable insight into one’s life journey, reflecting on how our 'used to be' has had influence on who we are today.
Dean James talks to inspiring guests, revealing the most intriguing, inspiring and enthralling stories of a life's past experiences; successes, failures and lessons are reflected on as we celebrate change, transition, transformation and personal development.
We’re not dwelling on the past in a negative, stagnant way. We are giving it it’s proper time, power and reflection, so we can understand the impact it has had on who we are today!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
‘Used to Be’s’ do indeed count! “I used to be…” refers to a past human state, role, condition, identity or experience. Understanding the importance of what or who someone ‘used to be’ can provide valuable insight into one’s life journey, reflecting on how our 'used to be' has had influence on who we are today.
Dean James talks to inspiring guests, revealing the most intriguing, inspiring and enthralling stories of a life's past experiences; successes, failures and lessons are reflected on as we celebrate change, transition, transformation and personal development.
We’re not dwelling on the past in a negative, stagnant way. We are giving it it’s proper time, power and reflection, so we can understand the impact it has had on who we are today!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 10
Michael Bugary | I Used To Be...A Pro Athlete
Michael Bugary rose from a promising young athlete to the Major Leagues, playing baseball for the Boston Red Sox. But a brutal arm injury shattered his career - and his identity. In this raw and honest episode he speaks to Dean James about spiralling into addiction and depression, and later facing a brain tumour the size of a lacrosse ball. After surviving multiple surgeries and cancer treatments, his battle with mental health and addiction continued...until he met Lingo. His therapy dog gave him new purpose and hope. Lingo helped Michael focus on his recovery and live in the moment, accepting what he can't change, but working hard to change what he could no longer accept.
Now sober and thriving, Michael channels his journey into public speaking, inspiring audiences worldwide. His debut book, The Disease of Me, is set to release soon - a raw, powerful account of resilience, recovery, and reinvention.
Find out more here...Michael Bugary
Be the first to hear about the release of The Disease of Me...Sign Up to the Waitlist
Follow Michael:
If you were affected by any of the themes explored in this episode:
UK Based:
USA Based:
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 9
David Booth | I Used To Be...A Cop
From the Fast Lane to a New Life. In this gripping episode, David Booth sits down with Dean James to reflect on his decades-long journey as a traffic cop in Atlanta, Georgia. A career marked by high-speed chases, close calls, and the everyday grit of keeping the roads safe. But everything changed in an instant. A catastrophic accident not only ended his time in uniform but left him fighting for his life. What follows is a story of resilience and reinvention. David opens up about the physical and emotional toll of recovery, and how he found new purpose beyond the badge. Today, he’s channelling his experience into educating the next generation of drivers and training motorcycle enthusiasts for Harley-Davidson. It’s a powerful conversation about identity, impact, and the road to rebuilding.
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 8
Brezz Hall | I Used To Be...Hopeless
In this raw and powerful episode, Brezz Hall opens up to Dean James about his lifelong battle with addiction, shaped by deep trauma and a family history of substance abuse. Gripped from a young age, Brezz hit rock bottom, but he didn’t stay there. He broke the cycle, got clean, and now dedicates his life to helping others do the same as a peer support worker. Living so long with no hope, Brezz now has hope and purpose.
Beyond recovery, Brezz is sparking real conversations through his apparel brand, 4th Dimension Apparel, where fashion meets purpose. A portion of every sale goes to organisations helping people get and stay sober.
This is more than a comeback. It’s a movement.
Find out more about Brezz here...Brezz Hall
Explore Brezz's Apparel Collection here...4th Dimension Apparel
If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, please seek professional, medical help/advice. The links below are there to help you:
UK Based:
USA Based:
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 7
Kane Howard | I Used To Be...A Woman
In this raw and powerful episode, Kane Howard sits down with Dean James to share his unfiltered journey of transitioning from female to male. From emotional upheaval to financial strain, Kane opens up about the realities of transitioning in the USA and what it means to be a Trans man in today's age. But this isn’t just a story of struggle—it’s one of triumph. Now living as his true, authentic self, Kane has reclaimed his pride, redefined his purpose, and reignited his creativity. He’s written a book, re-educated himself, and is channelling his lived experience into bold new ventures. This is more than a transition—it’s a transformation.
Find out more about Kane's books here: Kane Jesse Howard
And follow Craig on:
If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, please seek professional, medical help/advice. The links below are there to help you:
UK Based:
USA Based:
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 6
Craig Maddern | I Used To Be...A Soldier at War
Craig Maddern spent 15 years in the British Army, serving in global conflict zones including Afghanistan. But the battles didn’t end when he left the front lines. In this gripping episode, Craig opens up to Dean James about the physical toll, the mental scars, and the fight to reclaim his life after a bipolar diagnosis, deep depression and PTSD. Now a best-selling author and life coach for high-stress dads, Craig shares how he turned breakdowns into breakthroughs—and why vulnerability, communication, and purpose are the new pillars of strength for modern men. Raw, real, and deeply inspiring.
Find out about the wonderful work Craig is doing here: CraigMaddernCoaching
Get Craig's Best-Seller here: How I Went From Stress and Hospital Beds, to Enjoying My Life
And follow Craig on:
If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, please seek professional, medical help/advice. The links below are there to help you:
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 5
Anthony Palacin| I Used To Be...Psychotic
Anthony Palacin joins Dean James for a fearless conversation about surviving a psychotic episode and being sectioned in a psychiatric ward. With raw honesty, Anthony unpacks the trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles that once consumed him—and the radical healing journey that followed. From confronting deep-rooted pain to breaking destructive patterns, Anthony shares how he rewired his life, reduced his reliance on medication, and discovered the power of flow-states. Now a coach helping others unlock clarity, resilience, and productivity, Anthony’s story is a masterclass in transformation, self-awareness, and the courage to rewrite your narrative.
Find out about the wonderful work Anthony is doing on his website: https://www.palacin.co.uk/
And follow Anthony on:
If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, please seek professional, medical help/advice. The links below are there to help you:
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 4
Muzna Amin | I Used To Be...On The Sidelines
Muzna Amin went from putting everyone else first to finally showing up for herself. In this energizing episode, she tells Dean James how she transformed from someone who couldn’t run 5K into a marathon finisher, a mountain trekker across North Pakistan, and now a triathlon trainee. Muzna’s story is one of reclaiming identity through movement, resilience, and radical self-prioritization. Health and fitness aren’t just goals—they’re her way of life. Now, she’s using her journey to inspire others to break limits, build habits, and step into their own power.
Follow Muzna on Instagram or YouTube.
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 3
Jay Hall | I Used To Be...The Walking Dead
Jay Hall lived with a life-threatening condition for eight years without knowing it. By the time doctors diagnosed him, they said he shouldn’t have survived. At the same time, Jay was running a booming business that grew too fast—and the stress nearly broke him. In this gripping episode, Jay opens up to Dean James about hitting rock bottom, walking away from the life he built, and choosing joy over burnout. Now fully immersed in writing, podcasting, and orchestrating one of Canada’s biggest Halloween events, Jay shares how he came back to life—literally and creatively. His debut novel The Last First Date is just the beginning and is available now here: "The Last First Date".
Find out more about Jay's books, podcast and ventures by Clicking Here.
Have look at Jay's Halloween Event in Winnipeg: Fear Wpg
Follow Jay on Instagram or TikTok.
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 2
Maria Roney | I Used To Be...In An Abusive Relationship
For over 20 years, Maria Roney lived in the shadows of an abusive marriage. In this deeply moving episode, she opens up to Dean James about the trauma, the PTSD, and the long road to healing. Today, Maria lives by the beach, surrounded by peace, love, and purpose—doing what she was always meant to do. As a Healer, Intuitive Guide, and Teacher, she now helps women transmute pain into power and awaken their divine feminine energy. Her story is one of survival, transformation, and radical self-love. If she can rise, so can you.
Maria is offering a Freebie to all U2BDC listeners! Click Below to claim yours...
Unlock Happiness - Maria Roney
Follow Maria:
If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, and are in need of further help & support, please see the links below:
Books:
Too Good To Leave, Too Bad To Stay, by Mira Kirshenbaum
Broken To Brilliant Book Series
Domestic Abuse: UK Charities
Australian Charities
Don't forget to join the conversation...
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 1
Daniel Dow | I Used To Be...A Tradie
From laying floors to leaping from them, Daniel Dow’s journey is nothing short of a blockbuster. In this high-octane episode, Dean James sits down with the man who swapped his toolbelt for a stunt rig—and now shares screen time with Hollywood legends like Tom Cruise, Bruce Willis, Benedict Cumberbatch, Woody Harrelson, and Pierce Brosnan. Daniel opens up about the grind behind the glamour: the relentless training, the fearless mindset, and the unexpected mentorship that launched him into the world of elite stunt performance. If you’ve ever dreamed of flipping your life script, this episode proves it’s possible—with guts, grind, and a touch of cinematic magic.
To follow Daniel's stunt experiences, Click Here.
To follow Daniel's mammoth property development project, Click Here.
To see what projects Daniel's been a part of, Click Here.
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 11
Ryan Curtis | I Used To Be...A Mummy's Boy
When Ryan Curtis lost his beloved mum Ann to cancer, his world shattered. In this deeply moving episode, Ryan opens up to Dean James about the extraordinary bond they shared—the laughter, the love, and the quiet moments that made her his everything. Diagnosed and given just six months to live, Ann’s final chapter was devastating, yet filled with grace. Ryan shares the raw truth of navigating her end-of-life phase, the heartbreak of saying goodbye, and the daily reality of living without her physical presence. But he hasn’t let go—he’s carrying her spirit forward, proudly continuing to be a Mummy’s Boy in every way that matters. This is a story of grief, resilience, and the unbreakable thread between a mother and son.
If you are affected by any of the themes explored in this episode, and are in need of further help & support, please see the links below:
Cancer Research - Coping with Cancer
Mind - Support and Self Care for Bereavement
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 10
Colin Ross Waterson | I Used To Be...A Dancer
Colin Ross Waterson pirouetted his way into history as one of the original male swans in Matthew Bourne’s legendary Swan Lake—a groundbreaking production that redefined dance theatre. In this exhilarating episode, Colin shares his journey from a bold 16-year-old moving to London to train, to dancing on some of the world’s most iconic stages. But the spotlight didn’t fade—it shifted. Now a full-time composer with a catalogue of sonic bangers and musicals in the works, Colin reveals how his dancer’s soul still drives every beat, every score, every creative leap. From pliés to power chords, this is a story of reinvention, rhythm, and relentless passion.
Follow Colin and listen to his projects here:
If you are a dancer thinking of changing career, get support here:
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 9
Jill Kaufman | I Used To Be...A Stay At Home Mum
For nine years, Jill Kaufman poured everything into raising her three children. But behind the scenes, she was quietly losing herself—her identity, her joy, her spark. In this powerful episode, Jill opens up to Dean James about the emotional toll of motherhood, the pain of a difficult divorce, and the courageous decision to rebuild her life from the ground up. From re-training to reimagining her future, Jill is now a qualified therapist, divorce coach, parenting expert, author, and more—using her lived experience to guide others through life’s toughest transitions. Her story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of reclaiming your voice.
Separation and Divorce Community
8 Free Guidelines for Separation and Divorce
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 8
Reese Sabatini-Blake | I Used To Be...Paralysed
Reese Sabatini-Blake went in for brain surgery to reduce her seizures. She woke up paralysed. In this extraordinary episode, Reese shares with Dean James the terrifying moment she learned she’d had a stroke on the operating table—and was told she’d never walk unaided again. But Reese refused to accept that fate. Armed with fierce determination and a deep understanding of neuroplasticity, she rewired her brain and reclaimed 99% of her movement. Now a best-selling author and holistic mental health professional, Reese uses her story of survival and science to help others rise from adversity and unlock their full potential. This is not just recovery—it’s reinvention.
To find out more about Reese's work Click Here
To order Reese's books on recovering from hemiplegia Click Here
For Reese's book outlining her methods of practices as a mental health practitioner Click Here
If you need information or support about any of the themes explored in this episode, please follow the links below:
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 7
Ange de Lumiere | I Used To Be...A Lawyer
Ange de Lumiere spent years in the courtroom, building a life around logic, structure, and legal precision. But when she changed careers later in life, she was forced to confront just how deeply she’d identified with being a lawyer—and how hard it was to let go. In this soul-stirring episode, Ange opens up to Dean James about the emotional tug-of-war between old identity and new purpose, and how she found a way to honour both. Now thriving in her new path, Ange has woven the wisdom of her legal past into a life of balance, intuition, and transformation. This is a story of reinvention, self-discovery, and the courage to evolve.
If you need information or support about any of the themes explored in this episode, please follow the links below:
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 6
Amir Sardari | I Used To Be...A People Pleaser
Amir Sardari spent years saying “yes” when he meant “no,” trapped in a cycle of approval-seeking that led to toxic relationships and emotional burnout. In this eye-opening episode, Amir joins Dean James to unpack the hidden cost of people pleasing—and the powerful journey of reclaiming his voice. With raw honesty, he shares how he unlearned the habits that kept him small, and re-learned how to live with authenticity, boundaries, and self-respect. If you’ve ever felt like you were living for everyone but yourself, Amir’s story is your wake-up call.
If you need information or support about any of the themes explored in this episode, please follow the links below:
Changing People Pleasing Behaviours
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 5
Chavier Lowe | I Used To Be...Obese
Chavier Lowe once tipped the scales at over 100kg, trapped in a body that no longer reflected the life he wanted to live. In this powerful episode, he opens up to Dean James about the moment he realised his health had spiralled out of control—and the fire that sparked his epic transformation. From battling self-doubt to building unstoppable momentum, Chavier shares the mindset shifts, emotional hurdles, and practical strategies that helped him reclaim his body, his confidence, and his life. Now fighting fit and full of purpose, he’s here to help you do the same. This isn’t just about weight loss—it’s about taking your power back.
Here are some links which may able to provide help and support if you or someone you know is going through some of the issues explored in this episode.
Coach Greg - mentioned by Chavier
Sean Fitzness - mentioned by Chavier
PLEASE REMEMBER TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVISE TO SUPPORT YOUR WEIGHT LOSS AND HEALTH JOURNEY!
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 4
Paul Whittaker | I Used To Be...an Alcoholic
Paul Whittaker’s descent into alcohol dependency was slow, silent, and devastating. What began as a mild habit spiralled into a life-threatening addiction, dragging him through some of his darkest moments. In this brutally honest episode, Paul sits down with Dean James to share his full-circle journey—from the chaos of abuse, addiction, and suicidal thoughts to the clarity of sobriety, healing, and peace. Now living a happy, healthy, and content sober life, Paul’s story is a testament to the power of transformation and the courage it takes to face your demons head-on. Warning: contains strong language and sensitive themes.
Here are some links to organisations who may be able to provide support if you or someone you know is going through some of the issues explored in this episode:
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 3
Kimberley Maynard | I Used To Be...Straight
Kimberley Maynard lived the life she thought she was supposed to—marriage, children, grandchildren. But beneath it all, a quiet truth was waiting to be heard. In this refreshingly honest and deeply inspiring episode, Kimberley sits down with Dean James to share her journey of coming out later in life, embracing her sexual identity, and stepping into a loving, joyful same-sex relationship. With unapologetic clarity, she reflects on the courage it took to live authentically—and the freedom that followed. This is the story of a mother, a grandmother, and a woman who chose truth over tradition, and found happiness on her own terms.
Follow Kimberley's latest project here...On The Couch With Kim
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 1, Episode 2: The Pilot
Dean James | I Used To Be...A Writer
For Liam Hobbs, writing wasn’t just a passion—it was his entire identity. But when his dream of publishing a novel began to unravel, so did his mental and emotional health. In this raw and revealing episode, Liam opens up to Dean James about the crushing weight of creative ambition, the heartbreak of perceived failure, and the extreme decision to walk away from the one thing he thought defined him. What happens when your dream becomes your undoing? Liam’s story is a powerful reflection on identity, healing, and the space between letting go and starting again. He used to be a writer...but what is he now?
Don't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.