The Natural Resilience Podcast

Natural Resilience
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Business
  • Updated Biweekly

Welcome to Natural Resilience, the podcast where stories inspire transformation. Hosted by Ciaran, a leader in the field of human behavior and performance, this show brings together extraordinary individuals to share their journeys of resilience, leadership, and self-discovery. With over a decade of experience in Emotional Intelligence, Effective Communication, and holistic self-improvement, Ciaran combines his expertise with a passion for exploring the human spirit. Each episode dives deep into the lives of remarkable guests, from elite athletes and world-class performers to trailblazers in business and community leaders. Through candid conversations, Natural Resilience uncovers the triumphs, challenges, and defining moments that shape these inspiring figures. The show offers powerful insights on what it takes to rise above adversity, unlock natural potential, and thrive in all aspects of life.Whether you’re seeking inspiration, practical wisdom, or a fresh perspective, this podcast will empower you to embrace your resilience and create a life of purpose and fulfillment.

  1. 5d ago

    The Inner World of Leadership | Dr Stephen McCabe, Momentum One Zero | Natural Resilience Podcast

    Dr Stephen McCabe leads Momentum One Zero, the £70 million innovation centre built under the Belfast Region City Deal. What does it actually take to build psychological safety into a workplace, and can a whole city region learn to do the same thing? In this episode of The Natural Resilience Podcast, Ciarán May sits down with Dr Stephen McCabe, Executive Director of Momentum One Zero, to talk about identity, performance and psychological safety in high-pressure leadership, and how a £70 million innovation centre is helping bring the Belfast Region City Deal to life. Momentum One Zero sits inside Queen's University Belfast and exists to turn research and industry collaboration into real economic activity for the city region, backed by the Belfast Region City Deal. Stephen talks through what building an institution like that actually involves, and what it will mean for Belfast's technology and innovation sector over the next several years. The conversation turns personal. Stephen has spoken publicly before about his own experience of anxiety and depression, and why psychological safety in a workplace has to start with a leader who is honest about their own inner world before they can build it for anyone else. Ciarán and Stephen talk through identity under pressure, what a leadership persona costs, and what it takes to build a genuinely safe environment around you rather than just saying you have one. IN THIS CONVERSATION - What Momentum One Zero is, and its role inside the Belfast Region City Deal - Building psychological safety into high-pressure tech and innovation environments - Stephen's own experience of anxiety and depression, and why he chose to speak about it - Identity and the leadership persona: what has to change, and what has to stay constant - What it takes to build a £70 million innovation centre, and what it means for the region - Practical advice for leaders trying to build real psychological safety in their own teams TAKE THE FOUNDER SCORECARD Stephen is direct about needing to know your own state before you can lead anyone else's. The Founder Scorecard is where that starts. It takes a few minutes and shows you where you are performing well, and where you need more clarity, structure or support. https://founder-first.scoreapp.com GET THE LESSONS FROM EVERY EPISODE We pull the most useful thinking out of these conversations and send it to our mailing list, so the ideas outlast the episode. http://eepurl.com/hhiFzr MORE FROM NATURAL RESILIENCE Website: https://natural-resilience.co.uk Subscribe to The Natural Resilience Podcast for more honest conversations about leadership, resilience, entrepreneurship and the realities of building a meaningful life and business. New episodes twice a month, recorded in Belfast. The Natural Resilience Podcast explores how founders, leaders, elite performers and remarkable people build the capacity to perform, endure and live well. #StephenMcCabe #MomentumOneZero #BelfastRegionCityDeal #QueensUniversityBelfast #PsychologicalSafety #Leadership #BelfastTech #NorthernIreland #Innovation #NaturalResiliencePodcast

  2. Sep 3

    From the Family Butchers to Blockchain | Kieran Kelly, Ubloquity | The Natural Resilience Podcast

    Kieran Kelly went from the family butcher's to CEO of Ubloquity, the Belfast firm securing global supply chains. What does it actually take to build a technology company from an unorthodox start, and who do you need around you to do it? In this episode of The Natural Resilience Podcast, Ciarán May sits down with Kieran Kelly, founder and CEO of Ubloquity, to trace a route into tech that went through a family butcher's shop and a bedroom building PCs before it arrived anywhere near a boardroom. Kieran describes Ubloquity as the trust protocol in the supply chain. It uses blockchain to let goods move across borders without friction, and to prove where something came from, what it is made of and who made it. He talks through the company's work with Amazon Web Services, and a project with Lowden Guitars in County Down that gave individual instruments a verifiable record of their own provenance. The conversation turns to what scaling actually costs. Kieran is direct about the cognitive load, the pressure, the stakes and the risk of building a start-up, and about why none of it is survivable alone. His line for it is that it takes a village to raise a start-up. Finding a tribe of founders who understand the work gives you a support system, and people who will show you your own blind spots. He closes on Northern Ireland's technology sector, and why the grit, the determination and the genuine willingness to collaborate here amount to a competitive advantage rather than a consolation. IN THIS CONVERSATION - From the family butchers, to building PCs, to founding a technology company - What Ubloquity does, and what a trust protocol in the supply chain means - Blockchain, frictionless borders, and proving provenance - The work with AWS and the Lowden Guitars project - Why scaling is high load, high pressure, high stakes and high risk - Finding your tribe, and the blind spots only other founders can show you - Collaboration as Northern Ireland's competitive advantage TAKE THE FOUNDER SCORECARD Kieran is clear that no founder gets there alone. The Founder Scorecard is where that starts. It takes a few minutes and shows you where you are performing well, and where you need more clarity, structure or support. https://founder-first.scoreapp.com GET THE LESSONS FROM EVERY EPISODE We pull the most useful thinking out of these conversations and send it to our mailing list, so the ideas outlast the episode. http://eepurl.com/hhiFzr MORE FROM NATURAL RESILIENCE Website: https://natural-resilience.co.uk Subscribe to The Natural Resilience Podcast for more honest conversations about leadership, resilience, entrepreneurship and the realities of building a meaningful life and business. New episodes twice a month, recorded in Belfast. The Natural Resilience Podcast explores how founders, leaders, elite performers and remarkable people build the capacity to perform, endure and live well. #KieranKelly #Ubloquity #SupplyChain #Blockchain #BelfastTech #NorthernIreland #TechFounder #Startup #LowdenGuitars #NaturalResiliencePodcast CHAPTERS [To follow. Auto-captions exist on the video, so these can be built from the real transcript. First timestamp at 0:00, minimum three, each at least ten seconds.]

  3. Aug 20

    From Sandy Row to City Hall | Tracy Kelly | The Natural Resilience Podcast

    Tracy Kelly grew up on Sandy Row and went on to become Lord Mayor of Belfast. What does authentic leadership look like when it is rooted in community, shaped by working-class values and driven by a determination to make sure nobody feels left behind? In this episode of The Natural Resilience Podcast, Ciarán May sits down with Tracy Kelly, former Lord Mayor of Belfast, to explore her journey from Sandy Row to Belfast City Hall and the experiences that shaped her approach to leadership. Tracy speaks openly about growing up in a proud working-class community, the importance of representation, and why people from areas like Sandy Row should be encouraged to believe that their background does not limit their future. The conversation explores grassroots leadership, staying connected to the people you represent, and the responsibility leaders have to make sure communities do not feel forgotten. Tracy also reflects on the realities of public leadership, remaining true to herself, and using her position to help others see what might be possible for their own lives. This conversation was recorded during Tracy's term as Lord Mayor. Her term has sinceended. IN THIS CONVERSATION - Growing up on Sandy Row and what that community gave her - The road from grassroots work to Belfast City Hall - Representation, and why it matters who is in the room - Staying connected to the people you represent - The realities of public leadership - Leadership as impact rather than title TAKE THE FOUNDER SCORECARD If you are a founder or business leader who wants to lead yourself and your organisation in the right direction, the Founder Scorecard will help you identify where you are performing strongly and where greater clarity, structure or support may be needed. https://founder-first.scoreapp.com ABOUT BREAKING BREAD This episode was recorded live at Breaking Bread, our quarterly leadership and business breakfast in Belfast. Every three months we bring together 50 of the city's top entrepreneurs and business leaders for three live fireside interviews and the conversations that follow. Join the waiting list: https://businessnetwork.scoreapp.com MORE FROM NATURAL RESILIENCE Website: https://natural-resilience.co.uk Join the mailing list: http://eepurl.com/hhiFzr Subscribe to The Natural Resilience Podcast for more honest conversations about leadership, resilience, entrepreneurship and the realities of building a meaningful life and business. New episodes twice a month, recorded in Belfast. #TracyKelly #LordMayorOfBelfast #SandyRow #Belfast #NorthernIreland #Leadership#CommunityLeadership #WomenInLeadership #BreakingBread #NaturalResiliencePodcast

  4. Aug 6

    From Loss to Legacy | Why Mark Hanna raised £1 Million for Marie Curie

    Sometimes the greatest purpose is forged through life's greatest loss.After losing his father to a heart attack and later his father-in-law, Mark Hanna found purpose through supporting Marie Curie. What began as a way of giving back has become a lifelong mission. Since then, he has: Raised over £1 million for Marie Curie. Completed 22 marathons (with the Dublin Marathon 2026 next on the horizon). Taken on multiple Ironman competitions. Reached Everest Base Camp. Climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. Cycled the length of Ireland. Trekked Machu Picchu. Organised Northern Ireland's Time Ball, raising significant funds for Marie Curie every two years. But this conversation isn't really about endurance sport. It's about grief, purpose, service, and the extraordinary impact one person can make when they dedicate themselves to a cause greater than themselves. Mark also shares his remarkable personal transformation, losing five stone, and reflects on why purpose—not motivation—is what keeps him moving forward. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people achieve extraordinary things, this episode is for you. If Mark's story resonates with you and you'd like to support this year's Time Ball in aid of Marie Curie, you can make a donation here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/timeball7-11-26?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=WA If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Every conversation has the power to change a life.

  5. Jul 23

    From Antrim Captain to Founder: Neil McManus on Leadership, Pressure & Purpose

    Neil McManus is widely regarded as one of the greatest hurlers ever to represent Antrim. Over a remarkable 17-year inter-county career, he captained his county, competed at the highest level of Gaelic Games and became one of the most respected figures in Irish sport.But this conversation goes far beyond hurling.In this episode of the Natural Resilience Podcast, Neil joins Ciarán May to explore the leadership lessons learned from elite sport, the importance of community, and the transition from athlete to entrepreneur.Growing up in Cushendall, Neil developed a deep connection to place, identity and service. Today, alongside his sporting legacy, he is helping create opportunities for future generations and has embarked on a new journey as a founder, building solutions designed to solve real-world problems.Together they discuss:✅ Leadership under pressure✅ Captaining teams and managing expectations✅ High performance and resilience✅ Lessons from elite sport that apply to business✅ Entrepreneurship and start-up life✅ Community, connection and belonging✅ The future of work and the impact of AI✅ Why human skills matter more than everWhether you're a founder, leader, entrepreneur, athlete or simply someone looking to perform at a higher level, this conversation is packed with practical insights and timeless lessons.---🎙 About the Natural Resilience PodcastHosted by Ciarán May, founder of Natural Resilience, this podcast explores leadership, resilience, wellbeing and sustainable high performance through conversations with exceptional people from business, sport, public service and beyond.New episodes released every two weeks.Connect with Ciaran May on LinkedinWebsite - www.natural-resilience.co.uk-If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review and share it with someone who would benefit from the conversation.#NeilMcManus #Leadership #Hurling #AntrimGAA #Entrepreneurship #FounderJourney #BusinessLeadership #HighPerformance #Resilience #NaturalResilience #Podcast #NorthernIreland #CiaranMay #SportAndBusiness #LeadershipLessons

  6. Jul 7

    Founder First - Fireside Chat with Greg Bradley - CEO and Founder of Blk Box

    Are you building a business, a brand or huge company like Blk Box? Take our Founder Scorecard to see how much capacity to truly have - https://founder-first.scoreapp.com What does it really take to build a world-class business from Belfast and compete on the global stage?In this episode of the Natural Resilience Podcast, Ciarán May sits down with Greg Bradley, CEO and Founder of Blk Box, one of Northern Ireland's most successful international brands in the fitness and performance industry. From humble beginnings to supplying some of the world's leading sports organisations, professional teams, elite athletes and high-performance facilities, Greg shares the real story behind Black Box's growth. This is an honest conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, resilience, business growth and the realities of scaling a company internationally. Greg discusses: * How Blk Box was founded * The early challenges of building a business * Scaling from Belfast to global markets * Winning major international contracts * Leadership lessons learned through growth * Managing risk, uncertainty and setbacks * Building a high-performance culture * The future of the fitness and performance industry * What founders and entrepreneurs need to know about sustainable growth Whether you're a founder, entrepreneur, business owner, leader or someone interested in building a successful brand, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world lessons from one of Northern Ireland's leading business success stories. Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, resilience, entrepreneurship, wellbeing and high performance. #GregBradley #BlackBoxFitness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #FounderJourney #StartupSuccess #HighPerformance #BusinessPodcast #NaturalResilience #ScaleUp #NorthernIrelandBusiness #CEO #FounderFirst #LeadershipDevelopment #FitnessIndustry #BusinessSuccess #Resilience #Innovation #Podcast

  7. Jun 23

    Sober Irish - Jim Fitzpatrick | The Natural Resilience Podcast

    What happens when someone decides to challenge one of the biggest cultural norms in Ireland? In this episode of the Natural Resilience Podcast, I sit down with Jim Fitzpatrick, founder of Sober Irish, to discuss the rise of alcohol-free living, changing attitudes towards drinking, and why choosing not to drink no longer means opting out of life. Alcohol-free beverages are experiencing huge global growth, particularly amongst younger generations who are prioritising health, energy, performance and meaningful connection over traditional drinking culture. But this isn't a conversation about prohibition or telling people how to live. It's a conversation about choice. Jim shares the story behind building Sober Irish, the inspiration behind the name, the challenges of launching a business that disrupts cultural norms, and why he believes Ireland can still be synonymous with great craic, community and social connection… just without the alcohol. We also discuss: • Why alcohol consumption is declining around the world • The changing relationship younger generations have with alcohol • Building a challenger brand in a traditional market • Identity, habits and social pressure • Entrepreneurship and starting a purpose-driven business • The future of alcohol-free products • Why socialising doesn't have to revolve around drinking Whether you drink alcohol, are sober curious, or simply interested in changing consumer trends and modern Irish culture, this is a fascinating conversation. 🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations exploring resilience, leadership, business, health and the people shaping the future. Follow Natural Resilience: Instagram: @naturalresilience_ LinkedIn: Ciarán May Website: https://www.naturalresilience.co.uk #SoberIrish #AlcoholFree #SoberCurious #IrishBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #NaturalResilience #Health #Wellbeing #FounderJourney #Podcast

  8. Jun 9

    Leah McCourt on Faith, Motherhood & MMA | Faith, Family and Fighting

    In this powerful episode of The Natural Resilience Podcast, I sit down with Leah McCourt for a conversation that goes far beyond the cage.While many people know Leah as one of Ireland's most successful mixed martial artists, this discussion focuses on the person behind the fighter. We explore the role that faith has played throughout her life, the challenges and responsibilities of raising children as a single mother, and the resilience required to navigate adversity while remaining true to your values.Leah shares her honest reflections on motherhood, identity, purpose, belief, personal growth, and the realities of balancing elite performance with family life. Whether you're interested in leadership, resilience, faith, personal development, parenting, or sport, this episode offers powerful lessons that extend far beyond MMA.Topics covered in this episode include:• Leah McCourt's journey through professional MMA• Faith, belief, and spirituality in challenging times• The realities of single motherhood• Building resilience through adversity• Balancing family, career, and personal purpose• Mental strength and emotional wellbeing• Identity beyond achievement and performance• Leadership, responsibility, and role modelling for children• Lessons from elite sport that apply to everyday lifeThis episode is a reminder that resilience is not simply about enduring hardship—it's about finding meaning, staying grounded in your values, and continuing to move forward when life becomes difficult.If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who would benefit from hearing Leah's story.

See All (36)

About

Welcome to Natural Resilience, the podcast where stories inspire transformation. Hosted by Ciaran, a leader in the field of human behavior and performance, this show brings together extraordinary individuals to share their journeys of resilience, leadership, and self-discovery. With over a decade of experience in Emotional Intelligence, Effective Communication, and holistic self-improvement, Ciaran combines his expertise with a passion for exploring the human spirit. Each episode dives deep into the lives of remarkable guests, from elite athletes and world-class performers to trailblazers in business and community leaders. Through candid conversations, Natural Resilience uncovers the triumphs, challenges, and defining moments that shape these inspiring figures. The show offers powerful insights on what it takes to rise above adversity, unlock natural potential, and thrive in all aspects of life.Whether you’re seeking inspiration, practical wisdom, or a fresh perspective, this podcast will empower you to embrace your resilience and create a life of purpose and fulfillment.

Information

You Might Also Like