When public speaker Dar Barrow went on holiday to Menorca, the last thing he expected was to come home with bowel cancer. Fit, healthy, having just ran an ultra marathon(!) he had no symptoms, no family history, and no warning signs... just a pain in his stomach that turned out to be life-changing.
In this powerful and unfiltered conversation, Dave sits down with Ben to talk through his diagnosis, surgery, and recovery - and how he found purpose through writing his brutally honest book “Oh Sh*t, I’ve Got Bowel Cancer.”
From humour on the ward to moments of raw fear, this episode is about facing the unthinkable, finding light in dark places, and the importance of speaking up before it’s too late.
🎧 Listen as we discuss…
(00:00) – The steak that started it all: how a stomach ache became something more(04:00) – Hearing the words “We need to get you tested”(06:10) – Men’s health: why we don’t go to the doctor soon enough(09:15) – Facing the unknown: from fitness to fear(12:00) – The colonoscopy, the moment of truth, and seeing the tumour on scree(16:10) – Switching mindset: from panic to preparation(18:30) – Training for surgery and finding strength through movement(21:00) – The operation: risk, recovery, and waking up without a stoma bag(25:00) – Finding perspective in pain — and gratitude on the ward(31:00) – Why movement matters in healing (and why he was home in 48 hours)(38:00) – The silence after the storm: life after surgery(41:00) – Journaling, Reiki, and the mental recovery no one talks about(44:00) – Writing “Oh Shit, I’ve Got Bowel Cancer”: from diary to lifeline(48:00) – Friendship, perspective, and the gift of still being here(52:00) – The fear of recurrence and the real mental battle post-cancer(56:00) – Dave’s advice: speak, trust the experts, and don’t Google it
KEY TAKEAWAYS
It can happen to anyone. Cancer doesn’t care how fit you are — listen to your body.
Don’t wait. Men, especially, delay seeing the GP — and it costs lives.
Mindset matters. Once you know what you’re facing, shift gears from fear to action.
Movement heals. Walking, training, and small wins speed recovery and boost confidence.
Talk, write, share. Expression — not suppression — is the real act of resilience.
GUEST
Dave (Dar) Barrow: Author, public speaker, and endurance runner. After being diagnosed with Stage 3B bowel cancer, Dave documented his journey with brutal honesty in “Oh Sh*t, I’ve Got Bowel Cancer.”
His mission now is to break the stigma around men’s health, encourage early diagnosis, and help others find light in their darkest moments.
FOLLOW
Dar on Substack, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Buy Oh Sh*t, I’ve Got Bowel Cancer here.
From the skies to the council chamber, Sally Holland’s path to public service wasn’t planned. A former Virgin Atlantic Cabin Service Director turned twice-elected Mayor of Congleton and Cheshire East councillor, Sally lifts the lid on how local government really works - and how ordinary people can actually influence decisions.
In this episode, Sally joins Ben to demystify councils (town/parish vs borough vs Westminster), explain where the money goes, and walk through real local flashpoints like road crossings and car-park rules. Expect straight talk on budgets, accountability, and the practical steps that get you heard before the diggers arrive.
🎧 Listen as we discuss…
(00:00) – From cabin crew to councillor: falling into politics by accident(02:12) – Town & parish vs borough vs national: who actually does what(05:10) – What councils control: highways, planning, licensing, social care(08:24) – Budgets 101: why adult & children’s social care dominate spend(11:05) – Case study: the controversial crossing, consultations, and costs(15:18) – Car parks, caps, and common sense: reading the usage data(18:40) – Committee system vs cabinet system: why accountability matters(22:11) – Being Mayor (twice): workload, wardrobe, and “Mayor Bear”(25:36) – Confidence after a career break: identity, service, and purpose(28:44) – How to influence: speaking at committees, recorded votes, evidence(32:10) – Why media narratives muddy the waters—and how to cut through(35:22) – A playbook for locals: six quick wins to make change happen
GUEST
Sally Holland: Cheshire East councillor (Conservative), twice Mayor of Congleton, former Virgin Atlantic Cabin Service Director, community advocate, and business owner.
From garden kickabouts in Congleton to signing with Manchester United at just 12, Keira Barry’s football journey has been anything but predictable. Now 20 and currently on loan to Sunderland AFC Women, Keira has already faced the highs of representing England and the lows of multiple long-term injuries.
Her story is one of graft, resilience, and an unshakable love for the game.
In this episode, Keira sits down with Ben to share how she went from playing in boys’ leagues to pulling on a Manchester United shirt, what it’s really like navigating injuries as a young pro, and the sacrifices her family made along the way.
Expect candid talk on mental strength, lockdown struggles, playing through pain, and why fun will always be her driving force.
🎧 Listen as we discuss…
(00:00–05:30) Growing up sporty, following her brother, and falling into football
(05:30–10:10) Trials, signing for Manchester United, and early academy years
(10:10–16:00) Playing in boys’ leagues, pressure, and lockdown challenges
(16:00–23:00) First injuries, family sacrifices, and signing a pro deal at 18
(23:00–30:00) Breaking into the first team, intensity of training, and inspirations
(30:00–37:00) On loan at Crystal Palace, setbacks, and resilience through injury
(37:00–43:00) Surgery, rehab, and rebuilding confidence on and off the pitch
(43:00–End) What success means now: enjoying football, winning trophies, and inspiring the next generation
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Talent isn’t enough. Resilience, graft, and showing up through injury matter most.
Family sacrifice is huge. Football is never a solo journey - it’s a commitment from everyone.
Injuries build resilience. Hard as they are, setbacks shaped Keira’s mindset more than success.
Fun is the foundation. Pressure is real, but joy in playing is what keeps her moving forward.
Role models matter. From Wayne Rooney to young girls in Congleton - inspiration fuels the game.
GUEST
Keira Barry: Manchester United forward, currently on loan at Sunderland AFC Women. England youth international with a story of resilience, graft, and a love of football that has carried her through injury and setback.
Follow Keira on Instagram.
When her dogs were stolen, Charlotte Robson hit a breaking point - then chose a different path.
Today she’s a motivational speaker, Positive Psychology coach, and co-founder of The Authentic Girls Club, helping women swap people-pleasing and self-doubt for confidence, clarity, and action.
In this episode, Charlotte sits down with Ben to share how a viral community effort brought her dogs home, why “be the change” became her personal reset button, and the practical self-coaching tools she now teaches: the Weekly Wake Up, the Self-Sabotage Shift, and a method for catching unhelpful stories in real time.
Expect candid talk on motherhood and identity, communication in relationships, and what it actually takes to step onto a stage and speak from the heart.
🎧 Listen as we discuss…
(00:00) Charlotte’s journey: people-pleasing, motherhood & finding her voice
(05:23) The wake-up moment: dogs stolen → going viral → getting them back
(09:44) Motherhood, identity & why putting yourself first changes everything
(15:10) Communication breakthroughs at home & breaking old rulebooks
(17:12) The Weekly Wake Up & the Self-Sabotage Shift
(22:41) Imposter syndrome, “I Am Enough” breathwork & self-coaching tools
(28:28) Member wins & the value of your story
(32:57) Building quiet confidence & the smallest next step if you feel lost
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Your story is your leverage. The hardest chapter can become the tool that helps others and powers your next move.
Catch the story, change the outcome. Noticing the script (“I’m not X type of person”) is the first step to rewriting it.
Mini rituals create major momentum. A consistent hour, like a 6am Monday reset, can shift your whole week.
Self-first isn’t selfish. When women put themselves into the equation, relationships and families benefit.
Confidence is built, not found. Breathwork, reps on stage, and self-coaching turn panic into calm presence.
Community accelerates courage. Safe rooms and smart reflection help you see what you can’t see alone.
GUEST
Charlotte Robson - Motivational speaker, Positive Psychology coach, and co-founder of The Authentic Girls Club.
She helps women move from self-doubt to self-trust with practical self-coaching tools, community, and weekly mindset rituals.
Follow Charlotte / The Authentic Girls Club on Instagram.
When Ben and Mary laced up their trainers in their forties, they never imagined it would lead to a YouTube channel with over 15 million views, a thriving global coaching community, and a brand new career after decades in the classroom.
Together, they are the duo behind This Messy Happy - a platform that helps everyday people fall in love with running and discover the life-changing strength it brings.
From grief, setbacks, and injuries to personal bests, global marathons, and HYROX competitions, Ben and Mary share their journey with honesty, humour, and the kind of wisdom that makes you want to grab your trainers and get out the door.
🎧 Listen as we discuss…(00:00) – From teachers to YouTubers: how This Messy Happy began(01:33) – Mary’s first 10K win, Ben’s early triathlons and discovering running as his “secret weapon”(06:44) – Running as therapy: infertility, eating disorders, and reclaiming strength(18:16) – Why running is the most accessible form of movement(22:26) – Getting started: first 5K, building consistency, and avoiding comparison(31:21) – Progressing to 10Ks, half-marathons, and beyond(35:02) – Running as exploration—why every route can be an adventure(38:04) – Marathons: fake pain, mindset plans, and the “rule of thirds”(44:24) – HYROX: strength, strategy, and why running is 75% of the event(55:15) – Growing up with asthma and becoming a marathon runner anyway(56:03) – Top three tips for anyone wanting to start running(58:14) – Inside the This Messy Happy coaching model: free resources, community, and 1:1 coaching
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Running is accessible to all: if you can move, you can run. It’s less about distance and more about consistency.
Fall in love with the process, not the product: goals are important, but the joy comes from showing up.
Mental resilience is everything: marathons are won in the mind as much as the body. Fake pain fades; the pride of finishing doesn’t.
Community makes it easier: accountability, encouragement, and shared experience can transform your training.
Call yourself a runner: identity shapes behaviour—once you believe you’re a runner, you’ll make choices that keep you running.
GUESTSBen & Mary - Founders of This Messy Happy, a coaching and content platform inspiring thousands of people around the world to start running, keep running, and love running.
Follow them on YouTube and Instagram
Join their community!
Trigger warning: brief talk of suicide.
From a medical discharge from the army to IVF struggles, debt, and sleepless 4am walks, Dave Carter’s path has been anything but linear.
Today he leads Men Walking & Talking in Sandbach, Cheshire - a simple weekly walk that’s become a lifeline for men facing grief, burnout, addiction, relationship breakdowns and suicidal thoughts.
In this episode, Dave sits down with Ben to share how a cold, rainy first meet-up of 13 strangers turned into a supportive community - and why movement, nature and no-pressure conversation help men open up.
Expect real stories, practical tools (from tiny wins to phone-free walks), and a blueprint for starting a group in your own town.
🎧 Listen as we discuss…
(00:00) – Why Dave started Men Walking & Talking
(01:22) – Army dreams, injury, IVF and the breaking point
(05:05) – The first walk: 13 men, rain, nerves… and relief
(07:48) – What a walk looks like (no phones, fresh air, confidentiality)
(10:31) – “I’m struggling” vs actually unpacking it
(13:06) – Why walking works: movement lowers the pressure to speak
(16:02) – Common themes: grief, debt, addiction, custody, loneliness
(19:44) – From listener to leader: the member who became a walk lead
(23:15) – Tools that help: tiny wins, positive self-talk, limit negative feeds
(27:28) – Meditation, journaling and the 10-minute rule
(31:09) – Partners & communication: learning to pause before reacting
(35:12) – Schools, social skills and teaching mental fitness early
(38:30) – Expansion plans across Cheshire & the North West
(41:22) – How to join a local group — or start one from scratch
(44:05) – If you’re in crisis: who to call and what to do now
(46:18) – What “graft” means in mental health: show up, keep walking
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Walking lowers the barrier: movement + nature make honest talk easier.
Admission isn’t action: “I’m struggling” must be followed by simple, repeatable steps.
Small wins compound: 10 minutes of journaling, a phone-free walk, one honest message to a friend.
Peer support works: let men find answers together — it builds ownership and resilience.
Reaching out is strength: help exists; you still have to take the first step.
GUEST
Dave Carter - Walk leader and community builder behind Men Walking & Talking, Sandbach, helping men connect through weekly walks and real conversation.
Follow Dave on Instagram
Follow Men Walking and Talking on Instagram
From hospital radio decks and nightclub residencies to Radio 1, talkSPORT, and TNT Sport, Adam Catterall’s career has been anything but straightforward. Known today as one of the sharpest voices in combat sports, his journey is a masterclass in graft, risk-taking, and staying the course when the easy option is to quit.
In this episode, Adam sits down with Ben to unpack his path into broadcasting, the mindset that’s carried him through rejection and reinvention, and his candid take on the state of boxing and MMA today. Expect behind-the-scenes stories from the Olympics, the Tyson Fury trilogy, and why “finding the piece of gold” is the most important part of any interview.
🎧 Listen as we discuss…
(01:08) - Hospital radio, DJ booths, and finding a voice on the mic
(05:00) - Winning a Pop Idol-style radio talent competition
(07:46) - Working multiple jobs and grafting without pay
(09:39) - Obsession, visualisation, and self-talk as fuel
(12:01) - The “piece of gold” rule of interviewing(14:07) - Breaking into sport and landing Radio 1
(18:13) - Risk-taking: leaving a top job without a guarantee
(21:00) - Belief, rejection, and proving people wrong(25:05) - The 2012 Olympics as a turning point
(30:05) - From Absolute Radio to talkSPORT
(35:13) - Boxing vs MMA: UK vs US, time zones, and meritocracy
(41:15) - Tyson Fury, Wilder, and the meaning of resilience(45:11) - Usyk, Dubois, and the difference between athletes and fighters
(49:49) - UFC highlights: Zhang Weili, Ronda Rousey, Charles Oliveira
(54:49) - Tom Aspinall, Jon Jones, and the White House fight rumour
(57:10) - Misfits, Jake Paul, and the blurring of boxing’s lines
(01:06:04) - What “graft” means to Adam
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Risk is essential: sometimes you have to quit the comfortable job to force the next step.
Obsession builds mastery: visualisation and preparation create confidence under pressure.
Find the “piece of gold”: every interview needs that one unforgettable moment.
Boxing vs MMA: meritocracy and matchmaking shape fan loyalty.
Graft = staying the course: resilience is about how you react when the path is blocked.
GUESTAdam Catterall: Broadcaster, presenter, and commentator across TNT Sport, talkSPORT, and beyond.
Follow Adam on Instagram
Listen to The Fight Disciples Podcast
What happens when the host becomes the guest?
In this season wrap-up episode of GRAFT, producer Rebekah flips the script and interviews Ben.
They reflect on the journey of launching GRAFT, the emotional and professional lessons learned, and what it really means to “graft” in today’s world.
If you’ve been with us from the beginning - or are just jumping in - this is the perfect episode to hear what GRAFT is all about.
🎧 Listen As We Discuss...
(00:01:25) – Why Ben started GRAFT: a conversation with his son sparked it all
(00:04:36) – How the podcast flipped his understanding of what graft really means
(00:08:52) – Going after what you want (or letting it go if you won’t do the work)
(00:16:37) – Deconstructing success: it’s not the car or house, it’s living aligned
(00:24:23) – Gratitude to the guests: vulnerability, trust, and showing up scared
(00:27:00) – Where GRAFT is headed next: more depth, more meaning, more life
(00:28:11) – Why men still need new mental health spaces - and how we might create them
(00:43:01) – What Ben’s learned (and where he still cries at the edits)
KEY TAKEAWAYS
You can’t want the outcome and not be willing to do the graft. Decide: are you in or not?
Curiosity is allowed. Don’t let anyone else's discomfort stop you from exploring.
Success isn’t always shiny. What matters is whether you’re enjoying the climb.
The most meaningful graft isn’t just professional—it’s emotional, personal, and human.
Men need new spaces. If you can’t find one, build one.
GUESTS
Ben Glimmerveen: Host of GRAFT, entrepreneur, father, and now: interviewee
Interviewer: Rebekah Donovan, Producer of GRAFT
When Jill Carsberg walked into a routine mammogram, she never imagined it would change her life. Diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer - an aggressive form of the disease- Jill faced down a year of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy while holding her family, career, and sanity together.
This episode of GRAFT is a departure from business as usual. It’s a raw, emotional, and deeply human conversation about vulnerability, strength, and what it means to survive something life-altering while staying rooted in purpose.
🎧 Listen as we discuss...
(00:00) – Jill’s early diagnosis and the hidden risks of “dense breasts”
(03:00) – Processing the news: “You just go into white noise”
(06:00) – Telling her daughters, and how they became her purpose
(10:00) – Childhood loss and the fear of history repeating
(11:00) – The mammogram that saved her life—and why yearly scans matter
(15:00) – The power of a plan: surgery, chemo, radiotherapy, repeat
(20:00) – The side effects they don’t talk about: steroids, weight gain, emotional fallout
(26:00) – “I didn’t feel like me at all”—chemo’s mental toll
(32:00) – Dog walks, cold caps, and the everyday rituals that saved her
(37:00) – “I always felt better after moving”—why exercise was her anchor
(44:00) – Emotional processing comes after survival
(47:00) – Moving Forward: peer support and delayed grief
(51:00) – Long-term meds, joint pain, and daily reminders of what she’s been through
(54:00) – Jill’s message for anyone receiving a cancer diagnosis today
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Early detection saves lives: Jill’s tumor was found at Stage 1—and her story is a powerful reminder to check yourself and advocate for better testing.
Movement is medicine: Whether it’s walking the dogs or running by the water, staying active was Jill’s non-negotiable mental health strategy.
Talk—but to the right people: There’s Google, and then there are oncology nurses. Choose wisely.
Survival is just one part of the story: Finishing treatment doesn’t mean you’re “better.” It means it’s time to begin healing emotionally, too.
GUEST
Jill Carsberg – Mum, partner, and breast cancer survivor sharing her story with vulnerability and strength.
What does it really take to build a business empire - while surviving recessions, dodgy manufacturers, and your kids joining the company?
This week, we sit down with Andy Pear: entrepreneur, founder of First Aid UK, and the man behind some of Congleton’s most iconic businesses. From remortgaging his home to buy a failing medical supply company, to opening a 300,000 sq ft manufacturing site in China - and later sinking millions into a heritage hospitality venue - Andy’s journey is a masterclass in what it means to graft.
🎧 Listen as we discuss...
(00:00) – From Selfridges to medical sales: the unexpected career beginnings
(03:04) – The £15K loan that turned into a £500K buyout (thanks, Dad)
(07:00) – Scaling First Aid UK and learning what wasn’t working
(09:00) – Why he sold his first business and started again from scratch
(12:10) – Navigating shady Chinese factories (and building his own)
(19:00) – Surviving recessions, supplier stress, and managing cashflow
(21:00) – Honesty, decency, generosity: the simple HR philosophy that works
(27:00) – Spelling mistakes, car bumps, and letting people learn by doing
(30:00) – What it’s like managing your kids in a growing business
(34:00) – Why stepping back as MD gave him the freedom to step up as mentor
(40:00) – Buying The Lion & Swan and turning a crumbling pub into a destination
(44:00) – Would he go into hospitality again? (The answer might surprise you)
(48:00) – What makes Pax, the iconic restaurant, work after 40+ years
(50:00) – His biggest business lesson from a gold-medal Olympic family
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Push the envelope: When the door closes, knock on the side gate. Then climb over it.
Build trust with your suppliers: Honesty buys you time (and sometimes survival).
Let people make mistakes: It’s how they learn—and how your company grows.
Legacy isn’t just business: It’s family, community, and what you leave behind in the places that raised you.
GUEST
Andy Pear - Entrepreneur, Founder of First Aid UK, Owner of The Lion & Swan and Pax, Chairman of Reliance Medical
🔔❗️Want to win a £50 Sienna's voucher? Comment "SIENNA" below to be entered into the draw.
The winner will be announced on The Graft Podcast's Instagram on Tuesday 1st July at 7pm! 🔔❗️
What does it really take to survive the chaos of the hospitality industry, bounce back from burnout, and build a café that becomes the heart of a community?
In this episode, we sit down with Chris Carson, long-time bar and restaurant owner turned café operator at Sienna’s. He's a man whose life has been shaped by hard graft, big risks, and deep reinvention.
From opening the original Bubble Room in Alderley Edge and running DV8 to stepping away from 100-hour weeks and rediscovering his purpose in a slower, more intentional life -Chris tells it like it is.
🎧 Listen as we discuss…
(00:00) Growing up in a family of grafters and starting out as a teenage barman(04:41) Opening his first venue at 21 and building a nightlife empire with DV8(07:38) Launching the Bubble Room: vision, pressure, and learning on the job(14:30) The cost of hustle culture: burnout, breakdowns, and stepping back(18:02) Life after nightlife: slowing down, finding balance, and getting sober(23:15) Opening Sienna’s café and the difference between bar life and day trade(26:42) The challenge of letting go of identity, ego, and old ways of living(31:50) Creating calm, welcoming spaces and the psychology of hospitality(37:20) What he’d do differently—and why he doesn’t regret the graft
...and more!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
You don’t need to prove anything: Sometimes walking away takes more strength than sticking it out.
Success looks different at every stage: Your version at 21 might destroy you at 41.
Hospitality is about people, not just profit: And the right energy is everything.
You’re allowed to evolve: Reinvention is a form of survival.
GUEST
Chris Carsons - Owner of Sienna’s Café (Congleton) & former founder of DV8 Follow Sienna’s
What does it take to go from sweeping floors to styling The Queen, presidents, and pop icons?
In this episode, we sit down with Lino Carbosiero MBE, a globally renowned hairstylist whose clients have included The Queen, the Clintons, Kylie Minogue, and members of the British royal family.
But behind the glitz is a story of serious graft. From humble beginnings as a carwash kid in Hounslow to running his own London salon at 21, Lino’s journey is packed with hard-won lessons on humility, hustle, and holding the door open for the next generation.
🎧 Listen as we discuss…(00:00) – How Lino “fell into” hairdressing at 15 and why he originally wanted to work for Ferrari(06:21) – Why hairstylists experience every human emotion - and how clients become family(10:23) – Opening a salon at 21, battling imposter syndrome, and earning client trust(14:06) – Losing sight of your roots, learning the hard way, and keeping loyal clients(18:32) – Working with Mandy Smith, Kylie Minogue & Jason Donovan, and why the 80s changed everything(22:52) – The day Lino did The Queen’s hair - and how he accidentally flooded the royal bathroom(30:06) – What it really felt like to be awarded an MBE… and then dragged by the press(37:02) – Working with the Clintons, the Trumps, and Joe Biden - plus secrets from presidential security teams(44:14) – The lesson Lino’s father taught him that changed everything(46:40) – Why it’s every stylist’s duty to pass on their knowledge
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Treat everyone the same. Whether you’re styling a princess or a pensioner, respect is non-negotiable.
Start small, learn fast. Every assistant job, every floor swept, every toilet cleaned is part of the journey.
Protect your client relationships. They’re sacred - and one cancelled appointment can cost you a lifetime of loyalty.
Pass it on. True legacy isn’t celebrity - it’s helping the next generation do it better.
GUESTLino Carbosiero MBE – Hairstylist to the Stars, Royals & Presidents | Daniel Galvin London
Want to win a Macclesfield FC season ticket?! Forward this episode onto a friend and comment "SEASON" below to be entered into the draw.
First place: 1 x season ticket for the 25/26 season
Second place: 1 x signed ball
Winners will be revealed on The Graft Podcast Instagram at 7pm on Tuesday 17th June.
What does it really take to go from school struggles and having £3.50 in your bank account… to selling your company to AutoTrader and saving a football club from extinction?
In this episode, we sit down with Rob Smethurst, entrepreneur, founder of Motor Trade Delivery, and owner of Macclesfield FC.
Rob’s story is a masterclass in self-belief, resilience, and raw graft. From failing his GCSEs and hiding in the playground, to flipping cars in local classifieds and nearly losing everything he’d built, Rob opens up about the highs, lows, and defining moments that shaped his journey.
This isn’t your usual “success story.” It’s messy, emotional, and full of lessons for anyone chasing something bigger than themselves.
🎧 Listen as we discuss…
(00:00) Growing up with dyslexia, failing school, and finding early drive through sport
(03:04) Getting started in the car trade and the reality of a failed first dealership
(11:26) The comeback: flipping houses, rebuilding cash, and reinvesting in his dream
(17:06) Creating Motor Trade Delivery and nearly losing it all
(24:12) The day AutoTrader bought his company (and what came after)
(27:35) Buying Macclesfield FC on a whim (with a hangover and a giant bunch of keys)
(31:20) Rebuilding a club, re-finding his purpose, and creating a true community asset
(38:17) The reality of running a football business: egos, money, and meaning
(43:00) Investing £4 million into Macclesfield and building for long-term legacy
(46:08) Rob’s philosophy on failure, risk, and why he’ll always back himself ...and more!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Failure isn’t fatal: Your first business tanking doesn’t define your future.
Have a go: The biggest breakthroughs come from backing yourself when no one else will.
Purpose > Paycheck: Real fulfillment came not from selling a business, but saving a community.
Invest where it matters: In people, in legacy, in something that outlives you.
GUEST
Rob Smethurst - Entrepreneur, Founder of Motor Trade Delivery, and Owner of Macclesfield FC
Follow Macclesfield FC: @thesilkmen
Learn more: macclesfieldfc.com
What does it really take to grow a 66K+ following on Instagram, run community events, and stay grounded as a busy mum of two?
In this episode, we sit down with Emma Campbell, content creator, community builder, and founder of The Mum Club in Cheshire East.
Emma’s story is a refreshing reminder that graft isn’t always loud or glamorous it’s often found in the quiet commitment to show up, share honestly, and build something meaningful.
From early days of beauty blogging to creating a safe and inclusive space for mums navigating the chaos of motherhood, Emma’s journey is one of creativity, hustle, and heart.
🎧 Listen as we discuss...
(00:00) Emma’s journey from beauty reviews to relatable motherhood content
(05:21) The inspiration behind founding The Mum Club
(10:34) Why mum-focused spaces matter (and what makes hers different)
(19:07) The highs and lows of social media comparison, criticism, and connection
(27:06) Real talk on mum guilt, online criticism, and staying true to yourself
(34:06) B-roll tips, relatable content, and why fast-paced edits work
(43:20) Weirdest brand collab offers (yes, there were diet pills involved)
(45:21) Emma’s top advice for anyone looking to grow online in 2024...and more!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Authenticity over aesthetics: People follow people not perfection.
Start messy: You don’t need a niche, just a voice and a story worth telling.
Build what you need: If the space doesn’t exist, create it (someone else needs it too).
Boundaries matter: You can share online and still protect your peace.
GUEST
Emma Campbell - Content Creator, Community Host & Founder of The Mum Club Cheshire East
FOLLOW EMMA
What if the hardest thing you ever went through became the catalyst for saving over 500 lives?
In this episode we’re joined by Vicky Willis, founder of Bridging the Gap (BTG) a mental health charity changing lives through movement and therapy.
Vicky shares the raw, honest story behind how a personal crisis, a gym membership, and one powerful moment on a motorway bridge led to a national movement helping hundreds of people find light through darkness.
This isn’t just a story of hard work, it’s about resilience, purpose, and the kind of graft that starts with saving your own life and ends with transforming others.
Listen as we discuss…
(00:00) How a vet nurse career turned into a battle with anxiety and panic attacks
(05:00) Why traditional mental health support failed her when she needed it most
(12:00) The bridge moment: what pulled her back from the edge
(20:00) How movement, therapy, and community became her recovery tools
(28:00) Turning pain into purpose: starting a charity from scratch
(36:00) The true cost of helping people and the funding struggles charities face
(44:00) What it really takes to run a mental health charity and stay emotionally resilient
(50:00) What to do if you or someone you love is struggling with mental health
…and more.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Movement Matters: exercise isn’t about lifting heavy weights; it’s about movement that brings joy, connection, and emotional release.
The Power of Community: whether it's a quiet gym space or a warm welcome from a coach, feeling seen can be life-saving.
Mental Health Needs Action: long waiting lists and stigma make it harder for people to get help. BTG offers a proactive, practical pathway.
Charities Need Graft Too: behind every successful charity is emotional labour, endless admin, and the fight for funding.
GUEST
Vicky Willis - founder of Bridging the Gap (BTG), Mental Health Advocate, Charity Leader.
Have you ever been knocked so far off course that you had to rebuild not just your goals, but your entire mindset?
In this episode of The Graft Podcast, we sit down with footballer Max McCarthy for an honest, vulnerable, and inspiring conversation about resilience, rejection, and the long road back from injury.
From being released by two clubs to enduring a devastating dislocation in a playoff final, Max shares how he stayed grounded, kept believing, and discovered a deeper purpose in the game he loves.
This isn’t just about football. It’s about identity, mental strength, and learning how to rise again and again.
Listen as we discuss...
(00:00) – The playoff injury that sidelined Max at the peak of the season
(05:00) – Navigating the mental impact of injury and isolation
(07:00) – From early dreams to rejection: the academy system and what it teaches young players
(10:00) – How commuting 4 hours a day shaped his discipline and determination
(18:00) – Letting go of perfection: learning through failure at Stoke City
(24:00) – The power of community and playing for your hometown
(31:00) – What it really feels like to get benched—and how to keep your self-worth intact
(39:00) – Max’s favorite goal, why it mattered, and what football means now
(46:00) – Loyalty, legacy, and finding purpose off the pitch...and more!!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Mental Grit: Injury recovery is more than physical—it’s a daily mental test.
Redefining Success: Sometimes being "let go" is what leads you back to what matters.
Community Roots: There’s real power in playing for your people—and being seen not just as a player, but as a person.
Persistence Pays: From missed chances to top scorer, Max proves that progress is never linear—but it’s always possible.
GUEST
Max McCarthy – footballer for Congleton Town, former academy player at Crewe, Blackpool, and Stoke City.
Ever wondered what fuels Olympic champions and professional footballers to go the distance?
This episode of The Graft Podcast is a masterclass in perseverance, resilience, and raw sporting grit.
We sit down with Olympic gold medalist Ann Packer and her son Ian Brightwell, ex-Man City defender and Premier League manager. From Ann’s unexpected triumph in the 800m at the 1964 Olympics to Ian’s decades-long career at Manchester City, their stories are both deeply personal and universally inspiring.
Listen as we discuss:
(00:00) Welcome and overview of Ann’s Olympic accolades
(00:54) Discovering talent and finding joy in early athleticism
(04:21) The pivotal role of teachers and mentors
(07:37) Climbing the competitive ladder and representing England
(12:36) From 400m heartbreak to 800m world record
(16:03) The mental and emotional comeback post-defeat
(22:29) Ann’s Olympic gold and reflections on legacy
(25:22) Ian’s football journey: from schoolboy to Premier League player
(32:16) The power of training, discipline, and family support
(38:12) Inside Man City: leadership, drive, and behind-the-scenes grit
(44:40) What real effort looks like – then vs now
(49:04) Injury setbacks and the road to recovery
(51:52) Why hard work will always matter - in sport and in life
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Resilience: Both Ian and Ann overcame major setbacks - injuries, losses, and unexpected turns with discipline and tenacity.
Legacy: The power of family, mentorship, and intergenerational grit shines through their story.
Effort Over Excuses: Talent may open the door, but it's relentless hard work that gets you to the finish line.
Perspective: You don’t have to be the best in the world - just the best version of yourself.
RESOURCES MENTIONED
1964 Tokyo Olympics: Women’s 400m and 800m historical milestones.
Training Techniques: Sprint training for endurance and sport crossover benefits.
Man City Historical Context: Management styles of Peter Reid, Brian Horton, and Howard Kendall.
Ever wondered how to chase big career goals and keep your family life thriving…without losing your mind?
In this episode, we’re hanging out with Matt Field, CMO of the Aventum Group - this is a guy who knows a thing or two about juggling business, family, and staying true to your values (with a side of good humour).
Whether it’s building something meaningful at work or tag-teaming life with his partner, Matt shows us what real graft looks like when purpose and partnership collide.
We’re diving into the evolving world of education and apprenticeships, the not-so-glamorous (but oh-so-important) power of work ethic, and why building success with your people by your side is a game-changer.
Listen as we discuss...
(00:00) - The evolving view of education and the value of apprenticeships
(05:00) - How hard work and mindset have shaped a successful career
(12:00) - The role of affirmation and support within families
(20:00) - Balancing work and home life as a couple
(28:30) - The importance of shared values and work ethic in both business and family
(36:00) - Raising children with a strong work ethic and understanding the rewards of hard work
(44:00) - Why a strong partnership makes all the difference in business and life
...and more!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
How work experience and practical knowledge can sometimes be more valuable than formal education.
The importance of having a strong work ethic and shared values in a successful family dynamic.
The significance of being open with family about your work, successes, and challenges.
The power of affirming one another and fostering a growth mindset in children.
THE GUEST
Matt Field - CMO of Aventum Insurance
How do you transition from a 9-to-5 job to a thriving comedic career? It’s not just about skill or strategy it's about something completely different.
In this episode, we’re sitting down with Justin Moorhouse, a seasoned comedian who shares how he feels grateful for his career at every moment - even when that includes eating a cold pakora on the last bus home.
He talks about the importance of graft, creativity, and the behind-the-scenes effort required in any creative profession. From navigating the early days of freelancing to creating a brand that stands out, Justin’s journey is all about embracing change, staying committed, and showing up even when things get tough.
Listen as we discuss...
(00:00) - Justin’s early days in comedy: navigating the transition from full-time employment
(04:45) - The challenges of building a reputation from scratch
(15:30) - How Justin learned the value of resilience and why quitting wasn’t an option
(27:10) - Balancing work-life dynamics: staying motivated and focused
(38:25) - The importance of networking and building meaningful relationships
(47:00) - Justin’s tips for overcoming self-doubt and keeping momentum
(55:10) - Why success in comedy isn’t just about the work—it’s about persistence and mindset
...and more!
GUEST
Justin Moorhouse - Comedian, radio DJ and actor
FOLLOW JUSTIN
What does it take to build a successful football career from the ground up? It's not just about talent or luck—it's about pure graft.
In this episode, we’re catching up with Richard Duffy, footballer turned manager, and all-around embodiment of resilience and grit.
From playing for some of the UK’s biggest clubs to leading Congleton Town with vision and heart, Richard’s story isn’t your typical sports tale. It’s about reinvention, staying grounded, and showing up fully even when the game changes.
Listen as we discuss...
(00:00) - Breaking into professional football as a 16-year-old at Swansea
(05:00) - The shock of moving to Portsmouth in the Premier League at just 18
(12:00) - The reality of constant loan moves and living out of hotels
(24:55) - Hitting rock bottom and rebuilding his career at Exeter
(34:20) - From player to manager: building a winning team at Congleton Town
(44:35) - Why chasing the dream versus chasing money always ends in disaster
(50:22) - What true graft means in football—and why it's never a given ...and more!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Professional Resilience: The reality of football careers and navigating setbacks when clubs try to force you out.
Personal Growth: Recognising when to look in the mirror and take responsibility for where you're headed.
Mental Toughness: Developing the mindset to overcome rejection and uncertainty as a professional footballer.
Management Philosophy: Understanding that playing systems must adapt to the players available, not the other way around.
Work Ethic: Why hard work isn't automatic and must be built in both playing and management.
GUEST
Richard Duffy - Former professional footballer with Swansea City, Portsmouth, and several other clubs. Current player-manager at Congleton Town where he's led the team to a league and cup double.
FOLLOW CONGLETON FC
RESOURCES MENTIONED
Welsh FA Coaching Badges: Richard discusses how these courses helped shape his management perspective.
Non-League Football: The importance of local support in building a thriving community club.
