Resilience Unravelled

In this Resilience Unravelled episode, host interviews London-based accountant, business advisor, and qualified hypnotherapist Pratiqk Jaani about his shift from feeling unfulfilled despite achieving milestones to a sense of wholeness. He explains that ideas of a “good” or “bad” life are conditioned from childhood and perpetuate a scarcity mindset, creating chronic lack and chasing outcomes.

Through meditation focused on the pauses between breaths and self-inquiry, he identified a neutral “observer” state (which he calls “Drashti”) untouched by emotions, reframing experiences as simply experiences rather than labels. He links this perspective to reduced stress and improved resilience, describes how a 2017 tuber...

In this Resilience Unravelled episode, Russell Thackeray interviews Australia-based Dr. Rosina McAlpine, a PhD educator and former academic, about supporting working parents and raising resilient children.

MacAlpine describes her shift from business-school research to parenting after facing conflicting newborn advice, leading her to write Inspired Children and develop Win Win Parenting.

She contrasts parenting styles—authoritarian, authoritative (best outcomes), laissez-faire, and neglectful—emphasising that authoritative parenting teaches values, empathy, and resilience. She outlines her practical “SEE” framework: Stop (self-regulate), Empathise (connect), Educate (teach life skills).

The conversation links parenting and leadership, discusses workplace equity v...

The episode of Resilience Unravelled with Dr Russell Thackeray discusses “aging well” as an inevitable journey that can be actively shaped, emphasising that while financial security can ease burdens, the most important pillars are accessible regardless of wealth. It argues aging well isn’t about chasing extreme longevity, but cultivating resilience, purpose, connection, health, and meaning. Key themes include building strong social ties to counter loneliness, engaging in community, hobbies, volunteering, and maintaining meaningful conversations. It highlights lifelong learning and curiosity to support neuroplasticity and cognitive health, alongside practical physical habits like daily movement, balance practice, nutritious cooking, and priori...

This episode of Resilience Unravelled discusses “waiting well,” drawn from long UK healthcare waits and delays in the judicial system, and argues that in a culture of speed, waiting feels like a rude interruption but is inevitable.

Waiting well is framed as an intentional mindset—responding to uncertainty with resilience, self-kindness, curiosity, hope, and purpose—rather than passively complaining or catastrophising.

Examples include using healthcare waits to seek reputable information, practice mindfulness, and build support, and using career or milestone delays to hone skills and set smaller goals.

Not waiting well can increase stress a...

In this Resilience Unraveled episode, Dr Russell Thackeray interviews San Diego-based IT and AI services entrepreneur Ephraim Ebstein, who shares his background growing up in California with frequent trips to Germany and an early interest in entrepreneurship.

They discuss why California produces many startups despite high taxes and regulation, and how networks of smaller businesses create opportunity.

Ebstein argues AI is transformative but overhyped, noting an MIT-cited finding that over 95% of AI implementations delivered no ROI and that AI-generated code can increase error rates and hurt long-term scalability, leading some companies to rehire engineers.

In a solo episode of Resilience Unravelled, Dr Russell Thackeray reflects on whether UK democracy is resilient amid events in America and stresses that democratic resilience means absorbing shocks, adapting, upholding rule of law, and maintaining trust.

They outline UK strengths: deep-rooted institutions, rule of law, civil society, a relatively free press (including BBC impartiality rules), civic participation, and the Supreme Court’s 2019 ruling against Boris Johnson’s prorogation as evidence of checks on executive power.

Key vulnerabilities include Brexit-driven hyperpolarisation, online misinformation, outdated electoral laws, an unwritten constitution reliant on norms, centralisation of executive powe...

In this Resilience Unravelled episode, Dr Russell Thackeray meets Jerzy Gregorek, born in Poland, recounts becoming a firefighter at 19, studying fire protection engineering, and joining Solidarity during the 1981 crackdown, including a crushed 10-day strike and three years underground after the murder of a priest he knew. A

fter warnings he could be captured, he left Poland in 1985 and later moved to the U.S., where he was rejected by the fire department as “overeducated.”

Turning to weightlifting and early personal training in gyms, he built a successful coaching career focused on customised, measurable progression in flex...

Will Steel joins Resilience Unravelled and shares a business lesson from investing £50,000 in a shirt venture that failed after the designer overcharged and manipulated import paperwork, which Steele links to Keith Cunningham’s idea that leadership failures stem from lack of courage.

He introduces himself as a coach for business owners and entrepreneurs, helping them grow while reducing time spent working in the business, after a 27-year background leading transformational programs and a prior career as an Air Force and airline pilot.

Steele distinguishes his ontological coaching from curriculum-based mentoring, illustrating with a client avoiding a p...

In this Resilience Unravelled episode, Alexis Sikorsky, a Swiss entrepreneur based in London, recounts building an internet café/ISP in Senegal, fleeing the country with only a suitcase, then returning to Geneva to grow a banking software and internet development business to about $10–11M revenue before the 2008 financial crisis cut 75% of revenue in a day.

After years of survival, he rebuilt to breakeven and sold to private equity on an 11x EBITDA deal with 85% cash and 15% earnout, emphasising that PE deals involve uneven information and founders should do diligence on acquirers by speaking to prior CEOs.

H...

On the podcast Resilience Unravelled, Russell speaks with Susan Inouye in Los Angeles about resilience themes in homes, products, and organisational culture, including companies that post values but don’t live them.

They discuss generational differences at work, with Susan describing shifts from command-and-control leadership toward belonging, meaning, and authenticity, and noting that millennials are now a large portion of the workforce.

Susan also shares that millennials are complaining about Gen Z, arguing it’s often about age and development, and references brain development and the influence of how generations were raised.

She emph...

In this Resilience Unravelled episode, host Russell interviews Brad Ley in Texas about oxygen and exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT). Ley explains he turned to oxygen therapy about a decade ago after chronic illness and autoimmune conditions, including psoriasis and autoimmune arthritis, when standard drugs carried serious risks and he developed melanoma.

He contrasts EWOT with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, noting hard-shell hyperbaric treatments were recommended to him but were too expensive and time-consuming. Ley describes “inflammaging,” where inflamed blood vessels and swollen capillaries restrict oxygen delivery, pushing cells into anaerobic respiration, lowering energy production and increasing inflammation; he s...

In this episode of Resilience Unraveled, host Dr Russell Thackeray interviews Chris Burres, a scientist and entrepreneur, about his unexpected journey into the longevity space. Chris shares his extensive background in working with a unique molecule, ESS 60, which has shown remarkable potential in extending lifespan and improving health. He explains the science behind this molecule, its origins, and how it might contribute to reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Chris also touches on the skepticism surrounding the supplement industry, the rigorous research backing his products, and his transition from a carbon nano material scientist to a health...

In this episode of Resilience Unraveled, Dr Russell Thackeray welcomes Kate McAfoose from Chang Robotics. Kate shares her journey from civil engineering in upstate New York to her current role at Chang Robotics in Jacksonville Beach, Florida.

She delves into her early career in project management and her transition into the field of automation and robotics.

The discussion highlights the challenges and resilience needed in male-dominated sectors, as well as the importance of mentorship for women in STEM.

Kate elaborates on how Chang Robotics is revolutionising healthcare with autonomous robots designed to assist...

In this episode of Resilience Unraveled, Russell interviews Renee Zukin, an author and former educator, about her background, her focus on empowering entrepreneurial women, and the benefits of writing and journaling.

Renee discusses her new book, 'Every Day I'm Brave,' which explores the relationship with fear and provides tools for personal growth, including journaling prompts.

The episode also covers societal shifts in anxiety, the importance of self-compassion, and the potential advantages of writing as a method of facing and understanding one's own fears.

00:00 Introduction

00:45 Guest Background and Career Journey

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, host Russell Thackeray welcomes guest Patrick Engasser, who shares his journey of overcoming blindness since birth to succeed in sales and motivational speaking.

Patrick discusses his move from Buffalo, New York to Destin, Florida, and the attractions of the warmer climate and beach lifestyle. Despite his initial desire to work in sports radio, he pivoted to a successful career in sales and later coaching.

Patrick emphasises the importance of resilience, relationship-building, and empathy in both personal and professional spheres. He also touches on the advancements in assistive technology for...

This was one of our favourite podcast recordings from the last few months!

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled,' host Russell Thackeray interviews Chris Endersby, a versatile professional with a diverse career journey spanning local government, the private sector, and entrepreneurship. Chris shares his unconventional career path, the lessons learned from his early days in child protection social work, and his experience in local government policy roles.

He discusses his transition into the private sector, his eventual establishment of his own business, and the importance of authenticity, persona management, and resilience in both personal...

In this episode of Resilience Unraveled, Dr Russell Thackeray discusses eye health with Dr. Pam Theriot. Dr. Theriot shares her expertise on dry eyes, the impact of increased screen time, and effective remedies.

She explains the different types of tears, their roles, and how blinking rates are significantly affected by digital devices.

Practical solutions such as eyelid cleansers, Omega-3 fatty acids, and proper screen setup are discussed. Dr. Theriot also highlights her book, 'Alleviate Dry Eye,' providing listeners with a comprehensive guide to managing dry eye symptoms.

The episode concludes with Dr...

In this episode of Resilience Unraveled, Russell welcomes Daniel Lachman to discuss the pressing issue of intellectual property rights for artists. Lachman, who previously ran a successful clothing company, pivoted to founding 'Justice for Artists' after dealing with extensive counterfeiting of his own designs. He explains the intricacies of copyright law in the US, how his organization helps artists protect their work, and the substantial financial impact counterfeiters can have. Through legal means, including freezing accounts and filing lawsuits, 'Justice for Artists' aims to educate creators on how to safeguard their intellectual property and pursue justice against counterfeiters. Lackman...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Russell shares heartfelt Christmas and holiday greetings while reflecting on the diverse experiences people may have during the festive season.

The discussion highlights the joy, reflection, and rejuvenation often associated with Christmas, as well as the challenges and pressures some might face, especially amidst family dynamics and commercial expectations. Emphasis is placed on the importance of choice and self-compassion, offering alternative ways to celebrate and cope with the season. The episode concludes with a toast to resilience and best wishes for the coming year.

00:00 Welcome and Holiday Greetings

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Dr Russell Thackeray interviews Sylvia Moore Myers about her profound experiences with grief and trauma.

Sylvia, who specialises in traumatology and holds advanced degrees in human services and crisis trauma response, shares her personal story of losing a son to a senseless murder and surviving a violent attack.

She discusses the concept of grief recovery, the importance of reframing memories, and how resilience can be cultivated.

Sylvia also introduces her book 'Gold Scars', which delves into her journey of healing and the wisdom she gained along the...

In this episode of 'Resilience Unravelled,' host Russell Thackeray welcomes Ralph Brewer from Help for Men. Ralph shares his journey of overcoming personal challenges, including divorce and single fatherhood, which led him to create Help for Men and The Brotherhood.

They discuss the concept of masculinity and its current crisis, touching on toxic masculinity, the role of men, and societal expectations. Ralph emphasises the importance of community, role models, and accountability in personal development and relationship growth. They also explore the impact of childhood experiences on adult relationships and the need for men to find secure...

In this episode of 'Resilience Unravelled,' Russell chats with Trevor G Blake, a successful entrepreneur known for his ventures in the pharmaceutical industry.

Trevor shares his life journey, born in Liverpool and later moving to the U.S., where he leveraged his diverse background to excel in various business settings.

Trevor discusses his military service in the Royal Navy, personal life, and approach to building seven successful companies.

Highlighting the importance of getting started over perfect planning, he emphasises confidence, intuitive decision-making, and dreaming big.

Trevor also touches on his...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Dr Russell Thackeray interviews Matt Granados from Life Pulse Inc. The discussion covers a range of topics including Matt's personal journey of resilience influenced by his daughter Natalie's rare medical condition. They delve into the importance of resilience, the misconceptions around work-life balance, and the value of intentionality and structure in achieving fulfillment. Matt also shares insights about his organisation, Life Pulse Inc., which helps individuals and organisations maximise their potential through practical systems. The episode also touches on the integration of personal and professional lives and how true resilience and motivation are...

In this episode of Resilience Unraveled, host Russell welcomes guest Sanjiv Patel, a transformation expert and first-generation immigrant from Kenya, to discuss his journey and insights.

Sanjiv shares his experiences in banking, financial services, and his transformative MBA journey that led him to his current focus on helping organisations and individuals achieve clarity, authenticity, and purpose. They explore the CAP method and the importance of resilience, especially during business challenges. Sanjiv also discusses his personal resilience journey, which includes overcoming severe COVID-19. The conversation delves into the role of authenticity in leadership, the impact of MBA programs...

n this episode of Resilience Unravelled, host Russell Thackeray chats with Zach Del Monaco, a young entrepreneur from Miami, Florida with an inspiring background in commercial construction. Zach shares insights into his journey, from working in his family’s construction business, leveraging social media for growth, to his personal battles and triumphs, including overcoming a significant spinal surgery. They delve into themes of resilience, the evolving concept of legacy, and the importance of personal growth and self-reflection. Zach also discusses his apparel brand, Perspective with a Z, which aims to inspire and uplift individuals through powerful messages and personal st...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Russell interviews Dr. Bonnie Buckner, founder of the International Institute for Dreaming and Imagery, and author of 'The Secret Mind: Unlock The Power of Dreams to Transform Your Life.'

Dr. Buckner discusses her extensive background in dreaming and imagery, explaining the continuous nature of dreaming both day and night. She outlines how dreams can influence leadership, creativity, and personal development by helping individuals engage with their inner experiences.

The conversation covers the importance of dream recall, the misconceptions about symbolic interpretations of dreams, and the applications of dreaming...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, the focus is on the critical subject of diet and nutrition with guest Adi Wyshograd, a registered dietitian and co-founder of Everlong.

Broadcasting from Southern California, Adi shares her journey into the field, driven by her personal weight loss struggles and professional interest in the psychological components of nutrition.

The discussion covers various aspects such as the importance of emotional connections to food, the difference between willpower and sustainable habits, and the impact of socioeconomic factors on diet quality. Addie also addresses the spectrum of disordered eating, control issues...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, host Russell interviews Darryl Stickel, an expert on trust building from Trust Unlimited.

Darryl shares his personal journey from growing up in a small, isolated town in Canada to becoming a trust consultant and academic with a PhD from Duke University.

He discusses the fundamentals of trust, explaining it as a willingness to make oneself vulnerable in uncertain situations and how it hinges on perceived uncertainty and perceived vulnerability.

Darryl elaborates on three key levers to build trust—benevolence, integrity, and ability—highlighting the importance of context and...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, tDr Russell Thackeray interviews meditation teacher and mindfulness coach, Fleet Maull. Fleet shares insights on his diverse meditation practices spanning over 50 years, including Tibetan, Zen Buddhist, and Vedic traditions, coupled with modern neuroscience. He discusses his unique Neuro Somatic Mindfulness Meditation approach, explaining how it integrates traditional meditation techniques with current scientific understanding of neuroplasticity and biofield science.

Fleet elaborates on the importance of regulating neural networks, such as the attention and self-regulation networks, and emphasizes the power of deep meditative states in healing trauma and enhancing resilience.

Fleet...

In this episode of Resilience Unraveled, host Russell Thackeray chats with Dane Johnson about his personal journey dealing with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Dane discusses his struggles with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the various treatments he tried, and how he eventually found a path to recovery.

He introduces his SHIELD program, which focuses on a holistic approach encompassing supplements, herbs, imagination, exercise, lifestyle, and diet. Dane emphasises the importance of a customised approach to healing and shares insights into the environmental and dietary factors that contribute to chronic illnesses.

He also highlights...

In this episode of 'Resilience Unravelled,' the host welcomes Matt Krayton, founder of a strategic communications, public affairs, and political consulting firm.

Matt shares his 14-year journey in the industry, providing insights on surviving the ups and downs of entrepreneurship during economic challenges.

The discussion delves into Matt's recent venture, M2 Aspire, aimed at leadership development by leveraging his extensive experience in strategic communication.

They explore the importance of mindset, the pitfalls of hustle culture, and the critical role of resilience in both political and business leadership. The conversation also touches on...

In this episode of 'Resilience Unraveled,' host Russell Thackeray chats with Tim Lupinacci, CEO and Chair of Baker Donelson, about leadership and resilience in the legal industry. Tim shares his journey from a young lawyer to a leader, emphasising the importance of authenticity, collaboration, and a growth mindset in driving organisational success. They delve into the challenges law firms face in a rapidly evolving environment, the significance of strategic vision, and the role of storytelling and personal connection in effective leadership. Tim also introduces his book, 'Everybody Leads,' and discusses the impact of empowering individuals at all...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Russell Thackeray delves into the fascinating world of molecular hydrogen with Greg 'The Hydrogen Man'.

Greg discusses his journey into hydrogen research following severe health issues that Western medicine couldn't resolve. He shares insights on the benefits of molecular hydrogen, its production methods, and safety.

The conversation also highlights the misinformation prevalent in the US compared to Japan's precise scientific approach. Greg emphasises the importance of using pure, medical-grade hydrogen and clean water for achieving optimal health benefits, citing numerous success stories.

He also provides practical advice...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, we meet Valencia Danzler, the 'Gratitude Grandmaster,' who shares her personal story of overcoming adversity through the practice of gratitude.

Valencia, an elite neuro-encoding specialist, explains how writing down daily gratitudes transformed her life from despair to success.

She discusses the science behind gratitude, offers practical tips for incorporating it into daily life, and introduces her published mindfulness journals designed to help both beginners and seasoned practitioners.

Additionally, she offers a special 'Clarity Breakthrough Bundle' for listeners interested in further exploring practices that foster resilience and...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, host Russell Thackeray interviews Jay Sapovits, founder of Ink’d Stores, a promotional marketing firm based in Boston. Jay discusses the intricacies of the merch and swag industry, providing insights into B2B promotional products, ROI tracking, and the cultural phenomenon of branded merchandise in the U.S.

He contrasts the U.S. market with the UK, explaining how cultural differences impact the merch culture. Jay also delves into his business philosophy, emphasizing a personalized, human-centric approach over an automated one.

He shares his perspective on resilience, the impact of...

In this episode of 'Resilience Unravelled,' Dr. Joe Nieusma, a toxicologist with 37 years of experience, discusses the effects of toxins on the human body. Dr. Joe explains the basics of toxicology, emphasising the principle that 'the dose makes the poison.'

He elaborates on how both external and internal toxins affect health, highlighting issues like oxidative stress and chronic inflammation.

Dr. Joe also shares practical advice on maintaining cellular health through proper diet, hydration, exercise, and sleep. Additionally, he introduces Carbon 60 as a powerful antioxidant and discusses his work in addressing post-fire toxic exposures...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, host Russell Thackeray interviews Dona Amelia, a dynamic leader originally from a small village in Indonesia, who shares her inspiring journey from poverty to becoming a global figure in the entertainment and business world.

Dona delves into her early life challenges, her family's financial struggles, and how her father discovered her singing talent. She highlights her extensive career in showbiz and her transition to a leadership role at Executive Global Network.

Dona shares her DONA framework (Dream, Opportunity, Never Give Up, Action) and emphasizes the importance of spirituality, hard...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, we meet Craig Polsfuss, a psychologist with a unique name and a compelling story.

Craig shares his journey growing up in Minnesota, his education in psychology, sociology, and philosophy, and highlights a significant moment of awakening at age 28 that transformed his understanding of life. He discusses the concept of shifting from an 'outside in' to 'inside out' psychological paradigm and the importance of innate resilience.

Craig also introduces his book series 'Reality Shattering Insights' and explains the impact of profound insights, referencing the teachings of Sidney Banks. This episode...

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Dr Russell Thackeray interviews Michael Erath, a former executive in the hardwood veneer manufacturing industry turned business coach.

Michael shares his background in the family business, the challenges of transitioning from domestic to export markets, and the devastating discovery of embezzlement and fraud by his business partner during the 2008 financial crisis.

Despite these setbacks, Michael successfully navigated the company through insolvency and later pivoted to coaching executives.

He emphasises the importance of clear organisational structure and accountability, sharing insights from his book, 'Five Obsessions of Elite Organizations...

In this episode of 'Resilience Unravelled,' host Dr. Russell Thackeray welcomes Kevin McCarthy, a former entrepreneur turned consultant, who shares his remarkable life story.

From becoming a paper millionaire during the late 90's dot-com bubble to losing everything and eventually spending 33 months in a federal prison for unknowingly committing a crime under a deceptive boss, Kevin discusses the concept of 'blind spots.'

These blind spots, which include unconscious biases, thinking errors, and limiting beliefs, cloud our judgments and can lead to destructive behaviours. Kevin highlights how his time in prison led him to...