Just Meee!

⚠️ Content warning: This episode discusses online grooming, child exploitation, and the loss of a child.Some conversations stay with you long after they end. This is one of them.In this deeply moving episode, Lorin LaFave shares the story of her son Breck Bednar, a bright, kind, and talented 14-year-old who was tragically groomed online and murdered in 2014.Out of unimaginable heartbreak, Lorin has dedicated her life to protecting other families through the work of the Breck Foundation, helping young people, parents, and schools better understand online safety and exploitation.This is a conversation about grief, courage, connection, and the responsibility we all share to create a safer world for children.As Lorin reminds us, conversations can save lives.Thank you, Lorin, for your bravery, honesty, and determination to turn pain into purpose.

I’ve often wondered what shapes a great leader — and whether it’s something you’re born with, or something you grow into.What I love about this conversation with Jacqui is the honesty in her journey. School wasn’t easy for her. Learning felt stressful, and she struggled at times to find her place. And yet, through belief, determination, and a desire to make a difference, she went on to earn a degree and become CEO of a multi-academy trust.Jacqui didn’t go into education for status or recognition. She went into it, as she beautifully says, “to see the joy in other people’s faces.” That says everything.She is a passionate advocate for second chances and reminds us that education should be about more than passing tests — it should be about people, personality, and potential.At the heart of her story is a simple but powerful belief: “I always believe I can.”And maybe that’s the magic ingredient we all need.Listen to this episode to hear from a leader who truly leads with heart.

What does it really take to become an Olympic Gold Medallist?Not just the medals… but the mindset, the discipline, and the resilience behind it all.In this episode of the Just Meee Podcast, Sophie Capewell MBE shares an honest and refreshing insight into her journey, what it takes, what it feels like, and what comes next once you’ve reached the very top.From early inspiration through her family, to the relentless commitment required at elite level, Sophie reminds us that talent alone isn’t enough.You have to turn up.You have to put the work in.And you have to keep going, especially when it’s tough.What really stood out for me was Sophie’s perspective:“Sport has such a big purpose.”It’s not just about performance, it’s about understanding yourself, trusting your instincts, and becoming the best version of who you can be.Whether you’re into sport or not, this is a conversation about life...growth, belief, and showing up when it matters most.

Rebecca Adlington – The Magic IngredientWhat is the magic ingredient behind lasting success?In this month's Just Meee podcast, Olympic champion Rebecca Adlington OBE reminds us that it isn’t talent alone, it’s belief, resilience, and the people who back you when no one else can see the finish line.From winning double gold in Beijing at just 19 to building Swim! A national learn-to-swim movement tackling the UK’s childhood water safety crisis, Becky’s journey is about far more than medals. It’s about purpose beyond the podium.She speaks openly about family support, impostor syndrome, business struggles, miscarriage, and motherhood, and how those experiences reshaped her understanding of success.If there’s a Magic Ingredient in Becky’s story, it’s this: showing up with heart. For your family. For your community. For the next generation.Because real gold isn’t always what hangs around your neck, sometimes it’s what you build for others.

The more I listen to stories like Paul Pook’s, the more I realise how powerful it is when someone turns pain into purpose.This deeply moving and honest conversation with Paul, CEO and founder of Tackle 360 and Tackle Suicide, is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, hope can still find a way through.Paul shares how rugby gave him self-esteem and belonging after a difficult childhood, and how a career in elite sport eventually collided with hidden brain injuries, depression, and years of suicidal thoughts. With extraordinary courage, he speaks about living with disrupted emotional circuitry, the impact of concussion, and the long road back to himself.What makes this episode so special is not just Paul’s vulnerability, it’s his compassion. Out of his own struggle, he created Tackle Suicide, an initiative dedicated to prevention, connection, and reminding people that they are not alone.As Paul so beautifully shows us, healing isn’t linear. It’s about reaching in, staying connected, and believing that tomorrow can be different from today.And when asked to describe himself in one word, Paul chose: “Grateful.”Wow. That says everything.Thank you, Paul, for your honesty, your courage, and for reminding us all that there is always hope.

“What if the most powerful thing we do this year… is choose to begin again?”As we step into 2026, this episode is a moment to pause and reflect, on the lives that inspired us, the people who shaped us, and the stories that live on.From icons like Jane Goodall and Cleo Laine, to everyday heroes like Chris and Sarra Hoy, this is a reminder that legacy isn’t just what we leave behind, it’s what we build, share, and live each day.This isn’t just a look back, it’s a call to look forward.To live with purpose.To be kind.To write the next chapter, intentionally.Let’s begin. #Podcast #JustMeee #Legacy #LookingAhead #Storytelling #Inspiration #Purpose #Hope #Kindness #MeeeMoments

“Some stories stay with us. Some change us. And some remind us of who we are, and what we’re capable of.”Over the past year, the Just Meee Podcast has brought together voices from every walk of life, people who’ve faced loss, found purpose, embraced change, and dared to speak from the heart.In this short highlights reel, we’re sharing just a few of the powerful moments that made us stop, reflect, smile, cry...and most importantly, feel connected.These are stories of courage, creativity, grief, hope, second chances, and deep human resilience.Thank you to all our remarkable guests for reminding us that behind every story is a spark of something we all share…humanity.We’re so proud to share them with you. Let’s take a moment to listen.

The more I live, the more I realise that things happen when they’re meant to.This podcast with the truly inspirational and insightful Corey Hastings is a beautiful reminder that life doesn’t happen to you, it happens for you. Corey invites us to follow our hearts, stay positive, and not to fear change. And that change is okay, even when it doesn’t make sense.This episode is a magical drop of happy tonic, a gentle nudge for all of us to keep reaching for whatever stars we seek.As Corey beautifully says: “I am worthy of who I am and what I can do!”Wow. That’s a sentiment we all need to embrace.Thank you, Corey, for your honesty, your energy, and for reminding us how powerful it is to live with love, laughter, and courage.

Sometimes, life just takes time.Gaz Jones was one of the very first attendees on a Meee employment course back in 2016 in North Wales, and he’s been part of our journey ever since.This podcast is a powerful reminder that life doesn’t follow straight lines. It’s full of twists and turns, some good, some not so good. But what shines through in Gaz’s story is the value of staying curious, open, and kind to yourself along the way.As Gaz brilliantly puts it: “The answers are always there, you’ve just got to look for them.”It’s rare that we invite someone who first came through one of our programmes to be a guest on the podcast. But we wanted to show that magical people are everywhere. You don’t need to lead a multinational to be seen, heard, or appreciated.Thank you, Gaz, for your love, support, and all the brilliance you bring to the Meee family. xxx

From unimaginable tragedy to a mission of hope and change.Martin Cosser lost his 17-year-old son, Charlie, to knife crime, a pain no parent should ever have to endure. But rather than be silenced by grief, Martin has turned his heartbreak into a powerful force for good.This podcast is a deeply moving story of love, loss, and purpose, and how one father is using education, awareness, and community action to keep Charlie’s memory alive and help prevent more lives from being lost.Thank you, Martin, for your strength, your voice, and your determination to create a safer world for the next generation. x

Eric O’Grey was nearly 400 lbs and spending over $1,000 a month on medication. One doctor even told him to start planning his funeral. But another doctor, who took the time to truly understand him, changed everything.Dr. Preeti recommended two simple but life-changing steps: adopt a plant-based diet, and adopt a shelter dog.This podcast is a beautiful story of how one woman’s insight and one rescue dog transformed Eric’s life, and how he, in turn, has gone on to inspire thousands.Thank you, Eric, Peety and Jake, for your courage, kindness, and for reminding us all of the power of second chances. x

How a mother’s love and grief are driving a fight to change the law and protect all our children.No parent should ever have to face the unimaginable grief of losing a child. And no parent should be left without answers, not knowing why their child chose to take their own life.Ellen has bravely taken on the UK Government to push for a vital change in the law: to allow parents access to key social media data when a child has died by suicide or other unexpected death. Families deserve answers. And as a society, we have a responsibility to hold social media platforms accountable for keeping children safe online.Thank you, Ellen, for your tenacity, wisdom, and love — and for your courage in helping to make the world a safer place for the next generation. x

From Marine to entrepreneur, Sean Taylor has built world-class adventures that redefine iconic experiences. Starting from humble beginnings, he spent 20 years in the Marines before venturing into jaw-dropping, magical adventures, constantly learning, evolving, and striving to do things better everyday.This podcast is a masterclass in how trust, instinct, and honesty form the foundation of a successful business. One of Sean’s guiding principles is: "Surround yourself with people who can do things better than you", a mantra shared by many great business leaders.Listen in as Sean shares his passion for supporting local economies, at the heart of his business, and how his ventures have helped generate nearly a £100 million for local communities.Thank you, Sean, you truly embody tenacity and leadership. x

Trying to find your place in life is hard, no matter who you are or where you come from.What we love about Nikki is how she used her upbringing to find her voice through hip hop. She created a safe space for herself to write lyrics, take part in rap battles, and discover that everyone’s journey is unique.Today, Nikki works at Wigan Youth Zone, an exceptional facility that helps young people find their voice through sport, dance, art, and just about every creative expression you can imagine.It’s that safe space Nikki speaks about in this podcast that’s so vital to helping people flourish and find their magic.Thank you, Nikki, for turning your immense talent into a power and force for good.x

"We’re not meant to be on this planet to be unhappy and suffer." This belief, shared by the renowned author Victoria Hislop, is at the heart of her storytelling.Her extraordinary ability to craft stories that stir every emotion, while wrapping them in hope, optimism, and beautifully happy endings, has made her one of the most beloved writers of our time.This podcast is pure joy. It’s a celebration of the stories we all carry, and how storytellers like Victoria remind us that learning is lifelong, woven into everything we do.From humble beginnings, Victoria has used her gift of writing to transport us to the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Greece, deepening our connection to history, humanity, and each other.If you love stories, you’ll love this episode, it feels like listening to a novel, and yes, it has a wonderfully happy ending.Thank you, Victoria, for sharing your magic with us. xxx

Do you ever feel like some people just tackle challenges head-on? I often do.Talking with the incredible Anthea Rowan is a reminder that sometimes, you just have to get on with it, do your best, and seek to understand what feels daunting. This podcast was a joy, a powerful affirmation that fear fades when we strive to understand.Anthea has dedicated her life to brain health. Whether researching, understanding, or writing about it, this is her brilliance.After losing her mother to dementia, Anthea openly discusses why understanding is vital to making sense of such experiences.She’s truly remarkable, with a gift for shedding light on life’s complexities.Thank you, Anthea, for your insights and inspiration.x

One of Karyn McCluskey’s favorite sayings is, “Proceed until apprehended,” and it’s easy to see why.As Chief Executive of Community Justice Scotland, Karyn has dedicated her career to the pursuit of justice, driven by an unwavering passion for helping and supporting others.Her relentless approach to life is a testament to her deep commitment to making a difference.Join Karyn in this inspiring conversation about connection, hope, and justice. She reminds us why everyone deserves their liberty and how genuine communication is key to fostering understanding.Thank you, Karyn, for your love of justice, your wisdom and your heart. x

To start 2025, we’re excited to bring you a special podcast with our very own Sid Madge.Known for his ability to inspire and connect, he shares reflections on 2024 and hopes for the year ahead.Last year reminded us, more than ever, of how precious time is and how extraordinary we all are.Sid explores the lessons of 2024, celebrating those small, fleeting moments that hold the greatest meaning.Looking forward to 2025, this episode invites us to embrace the future with intention, gratitude, and purpose. It’s about appreciating the present and seeing the incredible potential in every single minute.Join Sid for an inspiring start to the new year as we reflect, connect, and step into 2025 with hope, meaning, and purpose.Thank you Sid.x

What struck me most when I met and interviewed Ryan was his pure love for movement. It might sound unusual at first, but it makes perfect sense when you think about it. Our bodies, minds, and spirits are always in motion, so why don’t we embrace and celebrate it more?This episode serves as a powerful reminder of why Ryan feels so strongly about “inspiring people to move.” His insights into movement, falling, and life itself are profound and energising. It’s a truly magical conversation that invites us to view movement not just as a physical act but also as a way of being.Thank you for this incredible gift, Ryan.x

It’s so refreshing to hear the amazing work that Conor is doing for the “Youth Voice”, through his wonderful organisation ’Spark UK’.His approach and fresh ideas on mental health, and making the world a kinder, happier place are so needed.If there’s a big message here, it’s to involve younger people in communities, societies, in business, and in government.Thank you Conor for being the voice and platform for so many. x

It’s not often you meet an author of a book you’ve loved reading. So meeting Neil, aka Sam, was truly inspiring.His wonderfully down to earth and humble outtake on life is truly remarkable. And, his advice to us all is equally as wonderful.Every minute of this podcast uncovers the timeless truth of being yourself.From a young teenager who loved rugby to becoming a prison officer in Manchesters notorious Strangeways Prison, Sam’s life has taught him some beautiful lessons.I hope you too will enjoy and learn from them.Thank you Sam. x

I never realised the magic, healing, and confidence that tattoos can bring.Luíza trained as an architect and was working in Brazil, but as a child had a passion for art, drawing, and especially Japanese anime.Luíza spent her days working in an architectural practice in Brazil, and in the evenings and nights turning her passion for art into becoming a tattoo artist. She then travelled over 9,000 kilometres to Bristol, in the UK to join the artists at the No Regrets Studios.Thank you Luíza for sharing your magic. xxx

Don't let age fool you!Ben, a young star at Travelodge, a company known for valuing their employees, embodies this perfectly.He sees the beauty in the unexpected – every day at Travelodge is a new adventure.And let's not forget the power of connection! Ben reminds us that in a room of eight strangers, there are eight opportunities to learn something incredible. Thanks for the infectious positivity, Ben! x

Stef took nearly 50 years to find his calling. And, what a calling it is!Stef started a charity called Onwards & Upwards that helps prisoners find meaningful employment, and not return to prison.Through faith and kindness, his ultimate legacy is to see empty prisons, and to help give prisoners the opportunity to find a better way to live their lives.Amazing. Inspiring. And wonderfully magical.Thank you Stef. x

Robert is one of life’s true sages. He’s a wealth of knowledge, a wealth of experience, and a wealth of genuine kindness.His ability to help people unlock their uniqueness and potential is truly magical.He has spent a career helping people quite simply make stuff out of LEGO®. But, that ’stuff’ helps them realise their uniqueness, their talent, and their potential.A truly magical skill, thank you Robert. x

If ever there was a reason to do what’s in your heart, regardless of what you are told at school, then this podcast is an absolute MUST!Josie has come from humble beginnings to be the voice and the character that is Frizzle, in the latest Ardman film 'Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget'. She’s a wonderfully energetic, positive, and highly creative person that has a beautiful message for us all. Thank you Josie, and thank you Frizzle. x

I wish that the world was ‘More Gary’. From humble beginnings to living a mantra of Honesty, Ethics, and Truth, Gary Millar is one of life’s extraordinary people who has learnt that whatever life presents us with we should use those lessons to "Do More and To Be Better, and to Pay It Forward".Extraordinary times call for extraordinary people. Let’s all be more Gary Millar!Thank you Gary. x

"But you’ve gotta have faith!” A wonderful saying and a wonderful mantra. Ewen Huffman has faith and spends his time helping many many others find meaning in life’s challenges and opportunities. As the first salaried chaplain in the UK construction industry his congregation are in the thousands at Hinkley Point C in Somerset. This is a wonderful insight into the joy of having and sharing ones faith. Thank you Ewen x

Dinah’s life has not been easy and many of us would have given up being as determined as she is.But all of Dinah’s life experiences have earned and taught her some of life’s greatest knowledge and secrets.She uses this knowledge and secrets to help others realise that they really are ‘Enough’. Join us on a wonderful journey of life’s secrets, riches and joys.Thank you Dinah for being you, and really being enough. xx

Matthew has lived a life that many of us can't fathom, yet he has emerged from experiences that are both ordinary and uniquely his own.To have been an active gang member in Manchester and undergone the challenges he faced is remarkable. What's even more incredible is that he now channels that past to support countless others.This podcast isn't for the faint-hearted, but it offers a glimpse into the profound lessons life imparts, even from the toughest school of knocks. Thank you, Matthew. xx

JUST DANCE! Miguel is like so many of the brilliant people in every community in the UK and around the world.From an early age he realised that mainstream education wasn’t his thing and through following his love of music, performance and creativity became the amazing person he is today.His honesty and his belief is truly beautiful. This podcast is testament to all of us who struggle.Thank you Miguel for being the dance we all need.xx

JUST KEEP KICKING! One wintery day in early March 2016, Natalie Queiroz’s world turned upside! This remarkable lady has seen and experienced things none of us can really comprehend. But, through it all Natalie has used her honesty and tenacity to ‘Swim’ and not to ‘Sink’.This podcast is a thank you to Natalie for sharing her incredible story for us all to just KEEP KICKING! Thank you Natalie, your words will live me, I feel, forever. xx

Welcome to another inspirational podcast featuring an extraordinary individual, Russ Jefferys  the CEO of parkrun. Russ's journey is not just about leadership but about the incredible power of humility and dedication. He's the driving force behind an organisation that places health and happiness at its very heart.Join us as we delve into the inspiring story of Russ Jefferys, a true leader in every sense, quietly driven and committed to helping others be part of a movement that's changing lives, one run at a time.

Lucy is a wonderful human being. A very special lady and someone who encapsulates and epitomises the word passionate, which she brings to everything she does. I love her ’say yes to life’ mantra and all she does.Thank you Lucy for your smiles, your wisdom and your generosity. xx

The word inspiration is inspirational in itself. Nick Elston is an anagram of inspirational. He truly is. Nick is one of the best speakers I have ever met. Not only is his voice utterly delicious but the words he uses are delicious too! Thank you Nick you are very special man and a wonderful human being xx

However and wherever we approach life you will always find someone doing something wonderfully exciting and differently.Piotr, known affectionately as Peter is one of those wonderfully exciting people who has taken a very simple ethos and turned it into a business. Stol Coffee is just that. Thank you Peter for sharing your magic and helping us realise that ’Together Is Better’. xx

Bernie has just single handedly rowed 3,540 miles in 109 days across the Atlantic! This is part two to a podcast we featured in November 2022 before he set sail! This podcast is a reminder to us all to do the best we can every day, and to never give up. Bernie, you are an inspiration and this podcast is BRILLIANT, thank you. xx

Steven just loves the maritime industry, in all its glory. From serving onboard ships, to helping seafarers with their happiness and doing talks on The Battle of the Atlantic, he lives and breaths it.This podcast is a reminder to us all of the wonderful journey that life is. To not lose one's sense of self, identity and belonging. And ultimately to pursue your passions. Thank you Steven. x

Korky is truly amazing. I’ve loved his work for decades and still read Winnie The Witch books to my children. They are truly magical and his illustrations are brilliant.Korky’s life has been on a magical journey that has seen him cross many continents to Find, Live and Give his Magic! Thank you Korky for sharing that magic x

Imagine that you’re a teenager and you’re told you would lose your eyesight when you were 30? Now try to imagine that you reach 30 and it happens. In essence that is Dave Kelly’s story.  Thank you Dave for your wisdom and in helping us appreciate that regardless of what you have, we really can make a difference. X  

Loz is a true time traveller! He really is a truly remarkable lesson for us all. His education has been for life, and is for life. Not just the lives of a few but for us all.This podcast is nearly 2 hours long and worth every second too! It’s a real insight into an extraordinarily talent and a world that need more Dr Hoo’s. x

Bernie has achieved things that many of us will never get anywhere near. But, his very core being is all about ‘Giving’ and that’s what makes him truly extraordinary.Regardless of where we are in life we all have something to ‘Give’ and Bernie talks about how we can do the very simplest of things to create greatness in our lives. Thank you Bernie and the very best of luck with your Atlantic row. x

Danielle is a survivor. And we really do mean a survivor in every sense of the word…Danielle is a wonderfully positive person who lives life to its max…This podcast is a lesson for us all…whatever has happened has gone. Move on and be you. Thank you Danielle x

Who thought customer service and customer delivery would be so interesting? And it really is…Marianne is Swiss and reminds me of all the good stuff in Switzerland - efficient, honest, devoted, dedicated, enthusiastic and passionate.She’s a wealth of lived experience and has some truly wonderful advice to share. This is one of those podcasts that helps you feel all fuzzy and warm. Thank you Marianne x

Ben is an inspiration to us all. Everything he does is driven by his faith, his fearless approach to life and his love of helping others. From cleaning crime scenes to keeping bees to being a canny businessman Ben is wonderfully unique.This podcast is a great top up for anyone doubting their own unique qualities and abilities. It’s a real ‘GO LIVE’ booster. Thank you Ben for sharing your magic with us.

Lizzie is one of life's special special people assembled with the finest ingredients that any human being can be made of. An absolute delight of positivity, grounded reality and the most wonderfully eccentric thinking I've ever heard.If you love food, you'll love Lizzie. She truly is the best recipe for life...

David was co-founder of Howies, and is co-founder of Hiut Denim Co and The Do Lectures. Their quest for Hiut is to get 400 people their jobs back in a small town that used to have Britain's biggest jeans factory!If you DO One Thing this year, then listen to this podcast. David's advice, insights and thoughts are pure gold..."Every day, just push!"

Dean is the author of the popular Guardian Science blog ‘Brain Yapping’ on the Cosmic, the bestselling books The Idiot Brain and The Happy Brain. An amazing writer that has the magic to make complex things wonderfully simple and understandable.His humble beginnings have kept him grounded and along with his new found Beagle Forest he enjoys inspiring people to seek and be more...

Lela Patterson was born blind and has used this as her superpower to help others be less judgemental, more inclusive and more accepting of people with disabilities.Lela is a true advocate of 'Never Giving Up' and her energy and verve for life is infectious. She truly is remarkable.

Russ spent 30 years as a Police Officer, which is amazing in itself, but add to that his sense of purpose to help others in the most unselfish and kind ways he truly is remarkable.His start in life was far from easy and he has used all life's lessons to help guide him, those he loves and those he continues to serve. "Safe and Sound" is one of his wonderful mantras. Here's to us being so. Thank you Russ.