Nothing Ventured Nothing Gained

For the final episode of series two, we wanted to end with something light-hearted, funny and full of personality — and Brian and Melvyn were the perfect people to do that.Otherwise known as “Hat and Suitcase”, these two brothers brought humour, heart and complete chaos to the race in equal measure. From Glastonbury flags and Elvis impressions to golf clubs from charity shops, smelly shoes in hotel fridges and arguments about whether Melvyn’s suitcase was really a suitcase, this episode is full of laughs from start to finish.But underneath all the banter is something much more powerful.Brian and Melvyn talk honestly about what BBC's Race Across the World taught them — about getting older, trying new things, losing control, coping when life feels uncomfortable and finding confidence in yourself again. They reflect on the experience of travelling together in their sixties, the moments when they wanted to give up, the kindness of strangers, and how the race brought them closer together.There are also brilliant behind-the-scenes stories from the series itself, including:The now-famous Brian and Melvyn Appreciation Society flag at GlastonburyWhy Melvin’s shoes had to be stored in hotel fridgesWhat really happened when they met Caroline and Tom during the raceThe jobs that never made the edit, including bakery work, cleaning a spa and lobster fishingTheir very different approaches to golf, spending money and life in generalWhat it was really like filming 24/7 and living out of one suitcaseAs always, this episode is about much more than a television show.It is about what happens when we keep saying yes to life, even when we are older, even when it feels uncomfortable and even when we have no idea what we are doing.Brian and Melvyn remind us that you do not have to be the fittest, the fastest or the most prepared person in the room to do something extraordinary.You just have to be willing to have a go.Brian and Melvyn’s NVNG Top 3Never be afraid of failure because success always feels sweeter when you know what it is like to lose.Keep trying new things, whatever your age.Sometimes the best experiences come when you stop trying to control everything.A huge thank you to Brian and Melvyn for helping us end series two in such a funny, honest and uplifting way. Follow them on Instagram And thank you to everyone who has listened, supported, shared and encouraged us throughout this series.We will be back soon.Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

Rebecca and Caroline explore what happens when stepping outside your comfort zone means not only travelling across countries with a backpack — but also facing difficult conversations, old wounds and the parts of family life that are hardest to talk about?In this episode of Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained, we meet sisters Elizabeth and Letitia from Race Across the World. Their time on the series gave viewers plenty of laughter, warmth and memorable moments, but behind the scenes there was also a much deeper story about family, relationships and learning to understand each other in a different way.Elizabeth and Letitia talk openly about what it was like to take on such a huge challenge together, especially when they had not always been close. They reflect on the realities of travelling under pressure, the moments that brought them together, and the difficult conversations that helped them build a stronger relationship.It is an honest, funny and moving conversation about sisterhood, trust and what can happen when we stop avoiding the conversations that matter most.As always, Rebecca and Caroline also explore the simple science behind why stepping outside our comfort zone can change us. Sometimes confidence does not come before we do something difficult — it comes afterwards.Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

In this episode, we’re joined by Sarah Outen MBE — adventurer, author and now psychotherapist — whose story is as extraordinary as it is deeply human.At just 23, Sarah became the first woman and youngest person to row solo across the Indian Ocean. She then went on to complete her London to London expedition — travelling over 40,000km under her own human power by rowing oceans, cycling continents and kayaking coastlines. Today, her life looks very different. She now works as a psychotherapist — often alongside her herd of donkeys — helping people reconnect with themselves in a way that’s quiet, grounded and surprisingly powerful.In this conversation, we explore both sides of Sarah’s story.The extraordinary expeditions… and what followed.The storm after the storm — when pushing through was no longer sustainable. Illness, burnout, emotional struggle… and the realisation that surviving isn’t the same as living well.Sarah speaks with remarkable honesty about what she’s learned — from the cost of “just keep going”, to the importance of rest, emotional awareness and finding safe connections with others.Because as Sarah shows us, adventure doesn’t stop — it evolves.What once meant crossing oceans now means understanding herself, helping others, and working out what kind of life she truly wants to live.Sarah’s NVNG Top 3: All of it can be true at once  Be here now  Kindness — to yourself, others and the world It’s a powerful reminder that  sometimes joy and struggle sit side by side… and sometimes the bravest thing we can do is turn towards ourselves.Find out more about Sarah's work at Seen and Herd TherapyPlease follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

What if the bravest adventures aren’t about crossing continents… but about coming face to face with a life you thought you’d left behind?Rebecca and Caroline speak to Gaz and Yin joined Race Across the World as ex-partners — married for over 30 years, now separated — and still close friends.But this episode goes far beyond the race.Because for Yin, stepping onto that start line meant returning not just to a country, but to a past she had spent years trying to move on from. What followed wasn’t just a physical challenge — it was deeply personal, emotional, and at times overwhelming.And when the race ended early for them, something else began.✨ In this episode:The moment Yin almost didn’t get on the planeWhat it was really like returning to China and facing her pastHow grief and mental health shaped the experienceThe honest conversations they never had during their marriageHow the race helped strengthen their friendship in a completely new wayWhy they’ve chosen not to go back, but to move forward differently💡 This episode is really about:Facing parts of your life you thought were behind youHow relationships can evolve — even after they endThe power of honesty, compassion and understandingFinding a way forward when things don’t go to planThey didn’t win the race.But what they found — about themselves, and each other has changed the way they live their lives today.Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

What does a life of risk, adventure and reinvention really teach you?In this episode of Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained, Rebecca and Caroline sit down with entrepreneur and adventurer Nick Bullman — a man whose life sounds almost like fiction. From closing multi-million pound deals and flying solo across the Atlantic to surviving business failure, heart surgery and even being shot in an accident, Nick has lived life at full velocity.But what’s most striking is where all that experience has led him.Today Nick talks about the shift from adrenaline and achievement to something deeper — learning to slow down, find calm and focus on what truly matters.In this conversation, Nick shares the lessons he has learned through success, failure and some extraordinary moments along the way.They explore:Why failure often teaches us more than successThe mindset needed to keep going when things fall apartWhat flying across the Atlantic taught Nick about control and decision-makingHow a serious heart operation changed his perspective on lifeThe role of breathwork, mindfulness and the Wim Hof method in finding calmWhy neuroplasticity shows we can always learn and changeThe importance of tenacity, courage and self-beliefWhy learning to serve others and let go of ego brings real fulfilmentAlong the way there are stories about aviation, entrepreneurship, family life and the unexpected lessons that come from navigating life’s toughest moments.At its heart, this episode is a reminder that growth rarely happens inside our comfort zones — and that even the hardest experiences can lead to wisdom, humility and a deeper sense of purpose.Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

In this episode of Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained, the tables are turned as Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge find themselves in the hot seat, interviewed by their social media expert Jess.What follows is a funny, honest and surprisingly personal conversation about how the podcast began and what they’ve discovered along the way.Rebecca shares how a message sent after watching Caroline win BBC's Race Across the World led to the idea of inviting her to be her co-host. Caroline reflects on the moment she realised she wanted to prove that life wasn’t over once her son had grown up — a decision that led her to apply for the show and start a new chapter.They also talk about the remarkable guests who have trusted them with their stories — people willing to speak openly about courage, setbacks and moments of self-doubt. Through those conversations, and the shared experience of building the podcast together, Rebecca and Caroline reflect on how their own friendship has grown along the way.At its heart, Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained is about hearing real stories from real people — and showing that fear, doubt and uncertainty are part of being human, but they don’t have to stop us.The aim is simple:To inspire people to try something new, take a step outside their comfort zone, and discover what might be possible.Our thanks to Jess for helping us with our social media and hosting this podcast: The Little Business Fairy  or follow Jess on Instagram Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

Changing the world often begins with refusing to accept the limits placed on you.In this episode of Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained, we’re talking to someone who has done exactly that.Dr Hayat Sindi is a world-leading biotechnologist and a Fellow of Newnham College, Cambridge. Alongside her scientific work, she is deeply committed to widening access to science, particularly for girls and young women. As a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Science Education, and through her wider mentoring and advocacy, she works to ensure more young people feel both encouraged and equipped to pursue science and technology.Growing up in Mecca, she persuaded her family to let her leave home to study in the UK. It was a bold decision that changed everything. She later became the first woman from the Gulf to earn a PhD in biotechnology from the University of Cambridge.In 2013, she was appointed by King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud as one of the first 30 women to serve on Saudi Arabia’s Shura Council, helping shape national policy. Her impact has been recognised worldwide, earning her numerous international honours and awards.But beyond the titles and recognition, what stands out is her warmth, her compassion, her sense of humour and her quiet but unwavering determination to open doors for others. When one girl steps into science, the door opens wider for those who follow. That is part of her legacy too.This conversation is about courage, service, and what becomes possible when you refuse to accept that “no” is the end of the story.Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

Yes, Kaihan Krippendorff is the CEO of Outthinker. Yes, he’s recognised by Thinkers50 and Global Gurus as one of the world’s top thinkers in strategy and innovation. He is also a 7 x best-selling author and hosts his own podcast, with close to 200 episodes recorded.Behind those achievements is someone who keeps stepping beyond what feels comfortable, keeps asking questions and keeps taking risks. And that spirit is at the heart of NVNG.In this episode we talk about Kaihan’s life, from consultant to entrepreneur, the pressure of building something meaningful, and the comparison that can quietly creep in when you look sideways. We explore ambition, self-doubt, leadership, family life and what success actually feels like from the inside. We talk about mindset on the good days and the more uncertain ones. And yes, the fridge magnets make an appearance.Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained is about the courage behind achievement, the trade-offs people don’t always see, and the decision to keep going even when you’re unsure.If you’re building something, questioning yourself, or trying to define success on your own terms, this one will resonate.Kaihan Krippendorff | LinkedInPlease share and downloadPlease follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

We're back for Series 2 and it feels great!From “I’ll Die Single” to Building a Global Community of Ethical AdventureWhat happens when a woman in her 60s decides she’s not done yet?In this powerful, funny and deeply human conversation, we’re joined by Sheila Fitzgerald, founder of EVA Volunteer Travel — a woman who went from Googling “what should I do before I die?” to creating ethical adventures around the world.Sheila’s story moves from heartbreak and self-doubt to machetes in Thailand, elephants in India, gorillas in Rwanda and wheelchairs built for landmine survivors in Cambodia — alongside a global community she has created of people rediscovering confidence, purpose and connection.We’re also joined briefly by Matt Fenton, CEO of Inspired Ventures Limited, who believed in Sheila’s vision early on — and has supported her and EVA every step of the way.In this episode, we explore:Why “people like me don’t do things like this” is a story worth challengingHow ethical volunteering works best with communities, not to themWhat fear looks like just before you actWhy age might be your secret powerHow small actions can create lasting impactThis is a conversation about third acts, bad girls, flying with eagles (not turkeys), and what becomes possible when you stop waiting for permission.Please follow the links to find out more:EVA Volunteer Travel: https://www.evatravel.uk EVA Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/evavolunteertravel Inspired Travel Ltd: https://www.inspiredtravel.co.uk Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

Series Finale: Hosted by Tom Bridge — BBC Race Across the World 2025 WinnerIn this special end-of-series episode, the microphones are turned around.Tom Bridge - joint winner of BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with his mum Caroline - steps into the host’s seat and takes us on a brilliant, funny and reflective journey through our first series of Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained.It’s light-hearted, honest, surprising, and packed with moments that reveal just how much we’ve learned (and unlearned!) since episode one.We talk about:How NVNG beganWhat we’ve discovered about confidence, courage and connectionOur favourite moments and standout guestsWhat it feels like to be pushed outside our comfort zonesOur dreams and goals for the year aheadAnd a few gentle roastings from Tom along the wayMovember Special — Will & CharlieWe open the episode with Will Plows, who shares his powerful and deeply personal story — and his incredible decision to take on an IRONMAN for Movember, raising awareness and funds after losing his uncle and nearly losing his dad.And we close with a message from Charlie, Rebecca's son, who is also raising money for this great cause. He reminds us why Movember matters and why supporting even one person can make a difference.Please support Will and Charlie's Movember challenges here:Will Plows - Movember Ironman Fundraising Page Charlie Rees - Mo Bros - Frick Fundraising PageThank you — every donation supports men’s mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.What’s Next for NVNG?We’re taking a short break to prepare Series Two, with more wonderful guests, deeper conversations and plenty more humour.Plus:NVNG Brain Bytes — short five-minute episodes bringing the latest and most helpful neuroscience, positive psychology and coaching insights to a wider audience.Please follow us on Instagram: Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

This week, Rebecca and Caroline talk to Bethan Higson — the inspiring founder of Mother Root, the award-winning non-alcoholic aperitif, that’s taking the world (and our glasses) by storm. Fresh from her triumphant appearance on Dragon’s Den with her COO Alice Galsworthy, Bethan opens up about the courage it takes to start something new and what she has learnt along the way.We explore:✨How a spark of an idea in motherhood became a brand that's well on its way to becoming a mega brand.✨The fear factor behind that Dragon’s Den lift moment — and how she and Alice turned terror into triumph✨The inner battle between confidence and doubt — and why action is the antidote✨From market stalls to Waitrose and Sainsbury’s shelves to the US — what scaling at speed really looks like✨Learning to lead, building a culture that celebrates failure, and trusting your gutBethan reminds us that entrepreneurship is one of the greatest personal growth adventures there is — and that fulfilment lives just on the other side of fear.It's official, Caroline, Tom and Rebecca can confirm Mother Root is delicious. Perfect for your evening ritual, without the fuzzy head. Cheers to whole-being wellbeing.Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

In this uplifting episode, Rebecca and Caroline meet Arabella Lloyd aka Tinks — a woman who accepted defeat on the slopes of Kilimanjaro and decided to move from great heights to sea level, rowing across the Atlantic Ocean with 11 strangers. Her story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the moments that don’t go to plan become the ones that define us — and that every great adventure starts with saying yes.We talk about what drives an ordinary person to take on extraordinary adventures and what 44 days at sea can teach you about teamwork, mindset, and fear. Join us for this warm, funny, and fearless conversation that celebrates the spirit of adventure in all of us. Tinks’ Nothing Ventured Top Three1️⃣ Just keep rowing — it will pass. Everything changes if you keep going. 2️⃣ Time is running out — use it wisely. Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed. 3️⃣ Every adventure starts with saying yes. Courage begins with a single word.A special message for Robin and Michelle from Tinks:"A huge thank you to my director Robin Beaumont at Beaumont Brown for accommodating my adventure, whether it’s letting me take all my holiday in one go, or having to listen to me tell the same stories over and over to our lovely customers and to my colleague Michelle, who picked up all the slack while I was at sea!"Follow Tinks on instagram and see her podcast episode link on Nothing Ventured Nothing Gained🤝 SponsorThis episode is brought to you by Wild Spirit, the UK activewear brand inspiring women to feel strong, confident, and completely themselves. Listeners can enjoy 10 % off at Wild Spirit Sportswear by using code NVNG10 🎧 Listen now — and say yes to your next adventure.Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

“I’m Ed — 29, from London. Founder of two companies, full-time wheelchair user, and a big advocate for accessibility and inclusion.”That’s how Ed Boyd introduces himself. Simple, passionate, and straight to the point — much like the way he approaches life and business.In this episode of Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained, Caroline and Rebecca talk with Ed about what it really means to succeed — and how his view of success has changed from chasing status and money to finding purpose, fulfilment, and freedom.Ed has built two businesses with his co-founder Cass— Crimson Social and drifthome — and they are challenging the way the property world works. They are redefining how we search for a new home — designed to work better for buyers and agents alike. Think Tinder, but for properties. 💡 In this conversation:Why fear of failure can hold us back — and how Ed learned to move past itHow Positive Intelligence and meditation help him manage stress and stay groundedEd’s Top Three guiding principles — including one powerful truth: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help.”And wouldn’t it be great if someone listening — maybe an investor who shares his vision — would like to connect with Ed and help take drifthome even further?Contact and Links www.drifthome.aiwww.crimsonsocial.co.ukLinkedin : Ed BoydLinkedin : Cassandra HumbertPlease follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

Our guest for this episode is Jennifer Upton — former British diplomat, now executive coach and founder of How to DiplomatIn this warm and deeply human conversation, Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge talk with Jen Upton — a former British diplomat who has been posted to some of the world’s toughest countries and now helps leaders and teams communicate, influence, and stay grounded when the pressure’s on.As Jen says, she was “posted to places I wouldn’t get to see on holiday” — and some of those postings came with extraordinary challenges. She shares what it was like to evacuate twice with two small children and her husband, and to survive the Marriott Hotel bombing in Pakistan. These experiences gave her a powerful perspective on leadership, resilience, and how to stay composed when everything around you feels uncertain.Now an executive coach and founder of How to Diplomat, Jen helps others learn the art of diplomacy in everyday life — connecting with empathy, handling pressure with grace, and leading through influence rather than authority.Together, the trio explore:How to manage fear and uncertainty in high-stakes situationsWhy influence starts with curiosityHow courage often looks quiet, calm, and deeply humanThe lessons diplomacy can teach us about work and lifeIf you want to work with Jen contact her by email:  [email protected] you want to follow her for more insights:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-s-uptonDiplomatic Dispatches newsletter:newsletterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/howtodiplomat/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@howtodiplomat The views expressed in this episode are the personal reflections of our guest. They do not represent the official positions of the UK Foreign Office or any government.Last week, Tom Bridge launched something new for us — the NVNG Top 3: three guiding principles or suggestions that help our guests when they’re facing new challenges or difficult situations. Tom’s were bold, inspiring, and full of heart.Listen to hear what Jen’s are — and we’ll start publishing these as separate clips on instagram soon.... when we have learnt how to do it!.Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

We’re joined by Tom Bridge, winner of BBC’s Race Across the World alongside his mum and NVNG co-host, Caroline Bridge.  We’re celebrating a big milestone — our first guest and our first partnership, YMCA Trinity Group, introduced by their Chief Operating Officer, Amanda Butterworth. Tom, takes us behind the scenes of an extraordinary journey that pushed him far beyond what felt safe or familiar. Tom shares the moments that challenged him, surprised him, and changed how he sees the world. Tom talks openly about fear, confidence, and the moments that changed how he sees himself and the world. We explore the pressures facing his generation, the importance of real human connection, and how shared adventures can bridge the gaps between generations.One of the most powerful parts of Tom’s story is how staying with a family of rug-makers in India inspired him to start his own business, Rugga Rural — importing the same beautiful handwoven rugs that first caught his eye on Race. You can also follow his journey on Instagram at @ruggarural A funny, honest and inspiring conversation about courage, connection and venturing beyond your comfort zone.Please follow and share 🫶 Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

How the way we communicate can build trust, deepen relationships, and change the course of our lives.We often think of communication as what we say. But so much of what really connects — or disconnects — us happens in the spaces between the words. In this episode, Rebecca and Caroline explore how slowing down, listening deeply, and tuning into non-verbal signals can transform the way we relate to others — and to ourselves.Rebecca brings coaching insights from years of working with leaders and their teams, exploring how communication shapes trust, connection, and performance in every kind of relationship. Caroline shares vivid memories from Race Across the World — arriving in China unable to speak the language, learning to connect through smiles and gestures, and discovering that communication is as much about presence as it is about words.Together they unpack why communication is so easily misunderstood, how deep listening builds trust, and why presence often speaks louder than language. At the end of the episode, they wrap up with five practical tips you can use straight away to strengthen communication and connection.Coming next: This is the final episode in our opening trilogy — a chance to get started, set the scene, and explore how we work together. We’ve loved laying the foundations, and now we’re excited to lead into the next chapter: conversations with an inspiring range of guests who will share their approaches, tips, and tactics for achieving what they set out to do.And what a way to begin — Tom Bridge is a brilliant first guest. A natural adventurer with a sharp mind and a big heart, Tom brings energy, honesty, and insight to the conversation.👉 Please follow & share NVNG to spread the word — because sometimes the most powerful communication happens without words. Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

What if feeling out of your depth isn’t a sign to stop — but the very first step into something new?  In this episode of Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained, Caroline Bridge relives raw moments from Race Across the World — panic, setbacks, and unexpected breakthroughs — while Rebecca Rees reveals what the brain is really doing when we step into the unknown.Rebecca also shares her own experience of being out of her depth: learning how to create and make a podcast for the very first time. From the nerves and false starts to slowly finding her rhythm, she shows that stepping into something unfamiliar can be daunting — but also exciting, messy, and deeply rewarding. ✨ What’s Next Episodes 1–3 are about building the foundations — sharing our own stories, science, and experiences to set the scene. But it doesn’t stop here. From Episode 4 we’ll be joined by our first guest — and it couldn’t be more fitting. Caroline’s teammate from Race Across the World, her son Thomas Bridge, will join us to talk about venturing into the unknown side by side. This is just the beginning — each week, more voices, more stories, and more discoveries.Please follow and share Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained so you don’t miss Tom’s episode and the many exciting guests to come.Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

Welcome to the very first episode of Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained. Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge share why this podcast was created, what it means to them, and how their own adventures — from executive coaching to Race Across the World — taught them the power of daring to try.In this first conversation, Rebecca and Caroline talk about the fears and interference they had to overcome just to start, why our brains resist change, and how both small steps and big adventures can shift how we think, feel and live. Caroline also reflects on her extraordinary experience of winning Race Across the World — the BBC series that drew a record-breaking six million viewers and was shortlisted at the NTA’s (National Television Awards).Our mission is simple and ambitious: to help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing. Each episode brings real stories, simple science, and the humour that keeps us human. Soon, we’ll also be joined by inspirational guests who’ll share their own adventures in daring to try.We’re rookie podcasters determined to keep going, keep improving, and share the adventure with you. Trying something new is rarely perfect — but it’s always real. 👉 Please follow, share and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.

Welcome to Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained. In this short trailer, hosts Rebecca Rees — an executive coach passionate about how our amazing brains work — and Caroline Bridge — winner of BBC’s Race Across the World — introduce the podcast. We share why stepping out of your comfort zone matters, what mental fitness really means, and how simple science, good conversation, and a sprinkle of humour (sometimes accidental!) can help us all discover what’s possible when we dare to try. We’d love to hear from you — your questions, thoughts, or ideas. You can leave us a voice note or message on our Nothing Ventured Nothing Gained WhatsApp +44 7375 220027.  Episode 1 launches on September 19th. Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained — thanks to Angela Young of Cambridge Podcasts for production and sound engineering, Gabriella Furzi for photography, and Zainab Uzair for the cover design. Thanks to Caroline Bridge for agreeing to be my cohost and for being such a thoroughly fun, intelligent and inspiring individual. Thanks also to Katherine Paterson for encouraging Rebecca to take a giant leap out of her comfort zone and to go for it.Please follow us on Instagram for lots of fun, adventures and behind the scenes antics.NVNG is hosted by Rebecca Rees and Caroline Bridge. Rebecca is an ICF PCC Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Peak 15 Coaching, passionate about how our brains work and helping people unlock possibility. Caroline won BBC’s Race Across the World 2025 with her son Thomas — a series watched by over six million and shortlisted at the National Television Awards.🎯 Our Mission: To help people pause, see beyond what holds them back, and discover new possibilities for greater happiness and wellbeing.📩 Contact Us : We’d love to hear your questions, ideas, or stories of stepping outside your comfort zone: WhatsApp: https://wa.me/447375220027Instagram @nothingventuredpodcast👉 Please follow, share, and be part of the NVNG adventure — it all starts with daring to try.