The Above Average Podcast

Carla is BACK! After two episodes away she returns with deep insights and knowledge as she and Adam do a behind the scenes of Libby's episode!

Libby Walker (@itslibbywalker) is a North East actress, singer, dancer and producer. In this episode we dive deep into creating opportunities for yourself, the highs and lows of being a creative and what it's REALLY like to be on X Factor...

Joined by good friend Carl Stacey, he and Adam do a deep dive on their thoughts and insights into Ross Tomkins recent episode!

Ross Tomkins (@rosstomkins4) is an entrepreneur and founder of Alphagenix, a testosterone replacement treatment that helps men take control of their hormone health, their energy, and their sex lives. We're going deep into masculinity, mens societal issues, mental health, alpha males and saying the quiet parts out loud... If you're a man who takes his health seriously - listen up.

Doing it solo for this episode, Adam answers questions about Steve Wraiths episode, what he though of certain topics and his overall views of how the episode turned out...

Steve Wraith (@stevewraith) is an actor, writer, promoter, podcast host at NUFC Matters & poet who's incredible curiosity led him to working for the infamous Kray twins, starring in Vera, making his own film, phone calls with Charles Bronson and even eating spaghetti with Henry Hill - today Steve shares his diverse life, the ups, the downs, the successes and the mistakes and what you can learn from them all.

Adam and Carla give their thoughts and insights on Dani Jacksons episode!

Dani Jackson (@holistic_dani_gut_health) is a gut health and detox specialist that helps women reclaim their health through holistic practises. From facing an autoimmune disorder at age 18 and diving deep into a health obsession, Dani has seen it all. This is an episode about what really goes on inside the body, about whether we’re over-medicated, under-educated - and whether we’ve been looking at our bodies all wrong...

Adam and producer Carla discuss Scott's episode and share their thoughts and opinions on the subject matter and go deeper into what was discussed.

Scott Finlay (@scott_innerhype) is a former American Football athlete turned motivational speaker and entrepreneur who's episode is the ULTIMATE self development deep dive. From being born with only 50% of his hearing, to battling bullying, to taking on his sister on TV's Ninja Warrior - Scott's brand of self development will light a spark in you that's sure to burn long after the episode ends.

Join Adam and producer Carla as they dissect Connor Reads episode and take an even deeper dive into the subject matter and give their thoughts on the episode itself

Connor Read (@connorreadcomedy) is a stand up comedian who's broken free of the 9-5 life and turned his passion into his career. From the closed-minded council estate to following his icons onto the stage, Connor's story is relatable, funny and heartwarming in all the best ways!

Join Adam and producer Carla as they go behind the scenes on Jess's episode, how they found the episode, has it changed their views and their own spiritual beliefs.

Jess Marriott (@atpeace.healing) is a psycho-spiritual therapist who went from party girl and people-pleaser to helping others heal through the body, not just the mind. We get into nervous system regulation, shadow work, toxic positivity, going alcohol-free, and why healing isn’t always pretty - but always worth it.

Join Adam and producer Carla as they go behind the scenes on Kelly Rickard's episode, what they thought of it, and their personal views on the subject matter.

Kelly Rickard (@kelly.rickard_123) is a stand up comedian and singer. Having moved her career from Wales, to London and finally to Newcastle, Kelly's wild story is one of laughs, heartbreak, blackmail and singing with Kate Moss in a treehouse. Follow her struggles from singer, to comedian, to mother and all the crazy happenings in-between!

Join Adam and Producer Carla as they go over their thoughts on Heywood's episode, its subject matter, and give their opinions on what came up during the episode.

Heywood Similon-Taylor (@heywood_and_stuff_podcast) is a podcaster and videographer who was born with a prominent birthmark on his face that spiralled his journey into discovering the power of identity. From dealing with drugs and alcohol to finally getting sober and raising his daughter on his own terms, Heywood's story is raw, humble and inspirational.

Adam & Carla delve into the behind the scenes of Rachel's story, their thoughts on the episode itself, AND go deep into men and women's relationships

Rachel (@wasdaletrees) is a survivor of a horrific two year long violent relationship. She's here to tell her story publicly for the first time, explaining in detail the damage that was done to her, how she got away then got dragged back in, but also how to notice the initial red flags and avoid these types of men all together. This is a raw, often uncomfortable story but one with an extremely powerful message you need to hear.

Join Adam and producer Carla behind the scenes in this BRAND NEW series as they discuss their thoughts on Peter McPherson's episode and spill the beans on their insights and of the guest himself!

Peter Mcpherson (@peter_mcpherson_) best known for his roles on Hollyoaks and most recently Smoggie Queens tells his story of the acting world, how his HIV diagnosis threw his world into disarray, what Emma Thompson is really like AND his deep mindset towards the art of performance.

Join Adam and producer Carla behind the scenes in this BRAND NEW series as they discuss their thoughts on Craig Wilde's episode and spill the beans on their insights and of the guest himself!

Craig Wilde (@craigwilde) is a former TV presenter, club promoter and entrepreneur who's dabbled in just about every industry possible. His journey took him from a 'pit house' to the strips of Ibiza to the spotlights of TV - but just who is the man they call 'Papa Wilde' and what does he think of his own journey looking back...?

Join Adam and producer Carla behind the scenes in this BRAND NEW series as they discuss their thoughts on Axel Tuckers episode and spill the beans on what they thought of the episode and of the guest himself!

Axel Tucker (@axel_tucker1) is a former inmate turned international model who's spent the last decade righting wrongs and becoming a strong and reliable masculine figure for his children. Hear Axels story from his upbringing to the one mistake that took his life down a dark path, to his redemption and his take on how a man should behave and raise his children in the modern age.

Sharna Johnson (@thetravelyogi777) is an entrepreneur, yoga teacher and world traveler. Having started her journey as a PT, Sharna decided to do what we all dream of; grab her passport and run off to see the world. But is it as glamorous and Instagram worthy as we all think? Listen to Sharna's story as she takes us from the dusty gyms of Gateshead to the sunny shores of South East Asia - the good and the scary!

Sam Gibson (@samgibsonlimitless) makes a return to the show after 2 years to open many cans of worms, dive down a ton of rabbit holes and go DEEP on why modern culture is failing, how our masculinity is failing and the insane truth behind the new 'Skinny Jabs' - sit back and prepare to digest one of the deepest podcast I've ever done...

Elaine Robertson (@elainerobertson_) is a world class stand up comedian, having performed at the Edinburgh Fringe as well as on BBC3, Elaine's journey from rough Oxford student to Disney Princess to powerhouse comedian is one of love, mental illness and making kids cry!

Imthiaz Ghulam (@imthiaz_ghulam) is a former inmate turned mindset coach who, after getting caught up in a drug conspiracy, turned his life around in prison and has dedicated his life to helping men fix their body, their mindset and their closest relationships. Prepare for a deep dive into prison life, an insight into your mind, and an intense spotlight on religion.

Alfie Joey (@speakeasyguyalfiejoey) is a former monk turned comedian and radio host, as well as impressionist and TEDx speaker. His incredible journey from a man of God to interviewing his favourite Spice Girl is one filled with laughter, Looney Tunes and a deep love for life!

Katy Shutt (@katyshutt) is an OnlyFans creator and full time model and influencer from Newcastle. Unable to be satisfied with being told what to do in a normal job, Katy seeks to break free in every area of her life. From a former ballet performer, to beauty therapist, from personal trainer to model, Katy's done it all! But how does she feel about the path she's chosen, and does everyone in her life feel the same...?

Zak Atkinson (@zak.atkinsonmma) is a former semi-pro footballer turned MMA fighter with a burning passion to be the best at what he does. After losing his father aged just 15, his life spiralled into drink and drugs, and only after committing himself fully to a discipline did he find his true calling. Zak's incredible insights into the mind of a fighter spill over wonderfully into every area of life, so be prepared to be emotional, incredibly motivated and inspired to become a SUCCESS!

JP Addison (@johnpauladdison) is a master of sales and charisma, having spent over two decades in the sales world, he now trains others how to become elite level communicators and understand how to leverage their personality type in any social situation. Ready to take a deep dive into YOU?

Nicola Patterson (@nic_patto) is a fitness professional and longevity coach with a wild history! From teaching in Vietnam with her pet duck, Steve, to battling inner demons with drink, drugs and eating disorders - Nicola lays her cards on the table and holds nothing back from her incredible story in this chaotic episode!

In this unique episode we pay homage to YouTube's biggest interview show 'Hot Ones', the show with hot questions and even hotter wings. Our Version? 6 questions. 6 hot wings. Join myself and Luke John Harrison (@lukejohnharrison) in this special episode to see if we'll go all the way or let the heat consume us...

Joel Stone (@joelstoneofficial) is marketing expert and founder of Codebreak and bestselling author of the book 'Stay Hungry'. From his battles with mental health and entrepreneurship, to his best selling book and running an extremely successful marketing business - Joel's story is deep, insightful and littered with amazing lessons for you to apply to your own challenges.

Aaron Parker (@conscious__man) is a former scaffolder who now uses the practises of Stoicism & Spirituality to help others create meaning & purpose in their lives. His story from homelessness to walking the stoic path is relatable, replicable, & one you don't want to miss.

Lauren Pattison's (@lauren_pattison) story of drama student to Sydney Opera House playing stand up comic is littered with amazing 'hell yes' moments, 'oh sh*t' scenarios, and insanely thought provoking insights that will leave you heckling for an encore! Starting out on the small stage to taking part in Comedy Central's 'Roast Battle', to a voice over on Takeshi's Castle - Lauren has done it all and then some, but it hasn't always been easy as easy as it sounds!

Anthony Hutton (@theanthonyhutton) won Big Brother back in 2005 and it seemed his future was set as his celebrity status continued to grow. But once the work dried up and his mental health started to decline, it was time to build it all back up again, but with a classic Anthony twist! Hear Anthony's story of his rise to fame, his fall to the bottom, and his eventual rebirth as a keynote speaker and mens mental health activist!

Her story isn't over... Welcoming back Sarah Goldsborough (@geordie_ice_woman) to the show! Last year Sarah went through an unimaginable tragedy which left her children without their father, but she's continued to inspire thousands with her cold water exposure and running a thriving business from home. Continue her story in this emotional and inspiring episode

Stuart Hatton Jr (@mrgayworld_stuarthattonjr) is a Pride Radio presenter, model, ballroom dancer, & winner of the 'Mr Gay World' title. Sharing with us his enthusiastic views on life, his struggles as a gay man, winning Mr Gay World and competing on Come Dine With Me, Stuarts episode is one of true expression and inspiring stories to make you fall back in love with your life!

Sammy Dobson (@sammytinks) is currently starring in BBC's Casualty as Nicole Piper. She's a well known actress and stand up comic having performed at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and starred in Byker Grove, Inspector George Gently and Doctors. Hear her story of being homeless on Venice Beach, to rising actress , to the accident that derailed her entire career

George Charlton (@gbmc73) is a former heavy drug user who now teaches safe drug use and how to reverse an opioid overdose. His story of abuse, drug use, suicide attempts and eventual rise from the ashes is heartbreaking yet truly inspirational tale of one mans battle against his own demons. This episode contains sensitive material some may find upsetting. Viewer discretion is advised

Ian Lambert (@ianlambert5) is a former world record triathlon holder, owner of 3 successful businesses, and has raised over 16 thousand pounds for Dragonfly Cancer Trust. Ian shares his story from secret boozer to triathlon terminator, along with his vital keys for ultimate resilience!

Laura Smith (@laurasmithfemalecoach) is a female health and empowerment coach, having helped 100’s of women get in shape, revamp their lifestyle and feel better within themselves. She joins the show to share all her secrets of the fitness industry, how to understand your own mind and reasons for your behaviour, how to develop better habits that serve you AND how to empower yourself as a woman.

Sally Anderson (@sallylovessharpies/@wish_i_was_on_the_beach) is a former burlesque and fire dancer turned artist and skydiver with a degree in Psychology and a HUGE repertoire of skills, Sally is truly a jack of all trades! She shares all her stories from setting beards on fire, cringey performances, terrifying skydives and a deep discussion on why we are who we are!

Caroline Hayes (@gymgoddesscoach) is a former stage bikini competitor, now mindset and fitness coach with a strong belief that to get ANYWHERE - you fix your mindset first. We covered absolutely everything in this episode from bodybuilding competitions, food habits, childhood trauma, ACL injuries, skiing catastrophes and just how FIT Jack Reacher really is

Harvey Holt (@harveyholt__) is a fitness and mindset coach, offering clients a new way to look at their body and goals, & helps them develop bulletproof self belief. He joins the show today to tell his incredible personal transformation story, explain 'white knuckle syndrome', why we need to be more strategic, how perfectionism is a waste of time & much more!

Ami Porter (@mindset_neuro_mastery) is a neuroscience master who, after her son lost 40% of his brain, committed her time to understanding the deep inner workings of the mind and how to keep it in great working condition.