Beyond the Surface

Debbie Anne Turnbull MBE
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  • MENTAL HEALTH

Beyond the Surface brings you life-saving water safety education and practical mental well-being tools from someone who truly understands both worlds. Hosted by Debbie Anne Turnbull MBE, this podcast combines the heart of a mother who lost her only son to drowning with the expertise of a professionally trained trauma-informed practitioner and water safety specialist. After transforming her profound grief into purpose, Debbie has worked directly with the RNLI, police, fire services and emergency responders to understand what really keeps families safe around water. Her unique approach makes safety education accessible to busy parents whilst addressing the mental health skills that support both individual wellbeing and family resilience. Each episode delivers powerful conversations, practical and memorable safety knowledge you can implement immediately, alongside mental health ideas that help you manage stress, support others and create lasting positive change.  Whether you're a parent seeking confident water safety knowledge, a professional in caring roles or someone on a healing journey, you'll find actionable insights delivered with authenticity and compassion. Perfect for: Safety-conscious parents, HR and wellbeing professionals, healthcare and education workers, anyone interested in trauma recovery and nervous system health. New episodes every Thursday.

  1. NOV 28

    Exploring Belief Coding and Mental Health with Debbie Ann Turnbull and Tom Stanhope - Ep. 15

    Exploring Belief Coding and Mental Health with Debbie Ann Turnbull and Tom Stanhope - Ep. 15. In this episode of Beyond the Surface, host, Debbie Anne Turnbull MBE sit down with Tom Stanhope to discuss powerful new approaches to mental health and recovery. The conversation dives into belief coding, transformative practices, and practical steps for personal growth. Chapters 00:00 Comprehensive Modalities for Brain Training 04:43 Shifting Beliefs, Transforming Minds 07:02 Therapeutic Process for Trauma Healing 11:06 "Holistic Approach to Mental Health" 15:31 "Fast Change is Possible" 18:30 Programs for Women’s Support -------------------------------------------- Connect with Debbie and find out more about her work here: W: www.riverandseasense.com E: debbie@riverandseasense.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverandseasense LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-anne-turnbull-mbe-33190510/ -------------------------------------------- Connect with Debbie and find out more about her work here: W: www.riverandseasense.com E: debbie@riverandseasense.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverandseasense LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-anne-turnbull-mbe-33190510/

    21 min

  2. NOV 12

    Healing After Abuse: Practical Strategies for Safety and Nervous System Regulation Ep. 14.

    Healing After Abuse: Practical Strategies for Safety and Nervous System Regulation Ep. 14. Dr. Mandeep Kaur Khela joins Debbie Ann Turnbull to share her personal journey from medical research to trauma-informed coaching and support for families facing coercive control and the family court system. This episode offers practical insights and actionable advice for anyone dealing with hidden abuse and its lasting impact. Defining coercive control and how to spot early warning signs ("micro-courage," gut instincts, behavioural patterns)Understanding the connection between mind and body in trauma responseSimple, effective techniques to regulate your nervous system in challenging situationsBest practices for record-keeping without retraumatizing yourselfWhere to find support and resources if you're experiencing domestic abuse or facing family court battlesChapters 00:00 "Life's Unexpected Journey" 05:42 "Perfect Outside, Uneasy Inside" 07:47 Truth, Family Court, and Voice 09:53 "Trust Your Gut Instinct" 14:38 "Pause and Assess Relationships" 16:55 Easy Stress Relief Techniques 22:41 "Seaside Visualization for Calmness" 23:22 Positive Triggers and Reset Strategies 28:29 Small Gestures, Big Impact 31:35 Support Resources for Abuse Survivors 33:52 "Tomorrow Brings New Hope" -------------------------------------------- Connect with Debbie and find out more about her work here: W: www.riverandseasense.com E: debbie@riverandseasense.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverandseasense LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-anne-turnbull-mbe-33190510/

    36 min

  3. NOV 5

    Building Safer Waters: Steve Wills’ Journey from RNLI to International Drowning Prevention Ep. 13

    Building Safer Waters: Steve Wills’ Journey from RNLI to International Drowning Prevention Ep. 13. In this episode of Beyond the Surface, host Debbie Anne Turnbull MBE speaks with water safety expert Steve Wills about the evolution of drowning prevention and the impact of real-life stories. Discover how education, advocacy, and collaboration are shaping the future of water safety. The origins and growth of beach safety programs in the UKGlobal efforts in drowning prevention, including work with the UN and WHOChallenges in funding, access, and inequality in swimming educationThe power of personal storytelling in raising awareness and driving changeUpcoming conferences, initiatives, and the ongoing journey to keep communities safeChapters 0:00 Drowning Prevention and Beach Safety 05:36 Global Drowning Prevention Efforts 07:22 Freelance Consultant in Global Initiatives 10:34 "Advocating Swim Safety Education" 14:06 Rescued Stories: Lessons Learned 18:13 "Education Requires Follow-Up Engagement" 21:18 Reviving Youth Safety Programs 26:26 Mental Health, Safety, and Engagement 28:10 Global Maritime Search & Rescue Review 31:34 Global Conference for Shared Learning 35:14 "Progress in Drowning Data Sharing" -------------------------------------------- Connect with Debbie and find out more about her work here: W: www.riverandseasense.com E: debbie@riverandseasense.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverandseasense LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-anne-turnbull-mbe-33190510/

    37 min

  4. OCT 29

    Immediate Support for Grieving Families: Rhian Mannings MBE from 2wish - Ep. 12

    Immediate Support for Grieving Families: Rhian Mannings from 2wish - Ep. 12. In this powerful episode of Beyond the Surface, Debbie Ann Turnbull MBE sits down with Rhian Mannings MBE to discuss the heartbreaking losses that reshaped their lives and how they turned tragedy into vital support for grieving families. Discover practical insights on coping, hope, and the importance of immediate bereavement care. What you'll learn in this episode: Rhian Mannings' personal story of losing her son and husband within daysThe emotional aftermath and the struggle to find support in the immediate days following lossHow Rhian founded a charity, 2wish.org.uk,  to provide hands-on, rapid bereavement support for familiesThe ripple effects of child loss on friends, schools, and communities—and how early intervention helpsThe importance of hope, resilience, and practical ways to find "glimmers" in the darkest timesChapters 00:00 Rhianne's Story of Loss 03:25 Loss, Loneliness, and Unmet Support 09:23 "Talking About Loss and Grief" 10:09 Room for Families in Crisis 16:10 Butterflies at Angel Bay 18:00 Ripple Effect of Tragedy 23:27 "Heartfelt Approach to Work" 25:38 Balancing Growth and Family Life 29:19 Beyond the Surface Podcast -------------------------------------------- Connect with Debbie and find out more about her work here: W: www.riverandseasense.com E: debbie@riverandseasense.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverandseasense LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-anne-turnbull-mbe-33190510/

    30 min

  5. OCT 22

    Saving Lives Through Education: Aaron Beacher's Work in Road Safety and Powerful Personal Motivations Ep. 11

    Saving Lives Through Education: Saving Lives Through Education: Aaron Beacher's Work in Road Safety and Powerful Personal Motivations Ep. 11. Join host Debbie Ann Turnbull MBE as she sits down with Aaron Beacher, an award-winning road safety educator, to discuss his personal journey, impactful advocacy work and ongoing commitment to raising awareness. Their candid conversation touches on real-life tragedy, resilience and the importance of mental health. In this episode, you'll learn: Aaron's early inspiration to get involved in safety education after a life-changing classroom storyHis current role supporting students across North Wales and projects that make a differenceThe emotional impact of "Olivia's Story" and its effect on road safety awarenessPersonal stories of loss, resilience, and how family shapes Aaron's driveHonest insights into men's mental health, including support resources like Andy’s Man ClubDon't miss this episode of Beyond the Surface—real people, real stories, and important lessons. Chapters 00:00 "Impactful Story of Water Safety" 03:57 Supporting Learners for Real World 08:38 "Driving Lessons and Personal Stories" 13:31 Loss, Memory, and New Purpose 15:42 Selflessness and Caring Reflection 19:14 Slipped Discs and Misdiagnosis 22:01 "Grateful for Supportive Wife" 27:07 Reflection on Love and Loss 30:41 "Real, Raw Conversations That Matter" 32:45 "Open to Conversations Always" -------------------------------------------- Connect with Debbie and find out more about her work here: W: www.riverandseasense.com E: debbie@riverandseasense.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverandseasense LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-anne-turnbull-mbe-33190510/

    34 min

  6. OCT 8

    Uniting for Water Safety: Community, Partnership and Personal Stories That Save Lives with Dawn Whittaker - Ep.10

    Uniting for Water Safety: Community, Partnership and Personal Stories That Save Lives with Dawn Whittaker - Ep.10. Join host Debbie Ann Turnbull as she sits down with Dawn Whittaker, a decorated leader in UK drowning prevention, to discuss what it really takes to keep families safe around water. Discover the hard truths, lived experiences, and strategies that are shaping water safety across the UK. Dawn’s personal journey and what drew her into drowning preventionThe evolution of water safety initiatives in the UK, including key national strategiesThe impact of data and research on targeting effective drowning prevention campaignsHow partnerships and unified messaging have improved water safety awarenessPractical advice and crucial safety tips for parents and young people around waterLike, subscribe, and check out the resources below for more tools on keeping your family safe and strong. Chapters 00:00 "Origins of a Lifelong Journey" 05:59 Near-Drowning Experience to Lifesaving Journey 06:55 Promoting Water Safety Awareness 12:14 UK Drowning Prevention Strategy Launch 15:54 "Drowning Data Platform Launched" 19:35 Water Safety: Key Prevention Campaign 22:10 Navigating Support for Families 25:29 Coroner Support and Court Preparation 30:38 Honored at Windsor by Princess Anne 33:21 Water Safety for Teens 36:28 Promoting Water Safety Awareness -------------------------------------------- Connect with Debbie and find out more about her work here: W: www.riverandseasense.com E: debbie@riverandseasense.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverandseasense LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-anne-turnbull-mbe-33190510/

    39 min

  7. SEP 25

    From Tragedy to Mission: How Communication Saves Lives with Tom Stanhope | Beyond the Surface Ep. 9

    From Tragedy to Mission: How Communication Saves Lives with Tom Stanhope | Beyond the Surface Ep. 9. In this special episode of Beyond the Surface, Debbie Anne Turnbull MBE sits down with Tom Stanhope from Podforge to explore the crucial role of communication in mission-driven work. After losing her son Chris to drowning, Debbie transformed her grief into a powerful water safety movement through River and Sea Sense. In this candid conversation, she shares how she learned to tell her deeply personal story without being overwhelmed, the evolution from organic community support to formal organisation and the challenges of building credibility whilst navigating grief. Tom, who has supported Debbie's work for years and now produces her podcast, reveals the strategic thinking behind effective mission communication and how podcasting can amplify important messages in an AI-saturated world. Key Topics Discussed: How to communicate personal tragedy for public good The transition from informal advocacy to formal nonprofit work Public speaking strategies for emotionally difficult topics The role of authenticity in building trust with audiences Strategic podcast development for mission-driven organisations Balancing personal healing with public mission Chapters 0:00 Introduction - Debbie introduces Tom Stanhope 1:40 How their professional relationship began 3:45 The challenge of communicating personal tragedy publicly 4:50 The immediate aftermath - week three after the funeral 6:30 Community response and first fundraising walk 8:15 Going back to school and recognising the need for action 9:10 First press conference - the catalyst moment 10:30 When did the mission become inevitable? 11:40 Setting up River and Sea Sense - the "whispered" name 12:50 The transition from organic to formal organisation 14:20 Support from the Unlimited fund and building confidence 16:30 Dealing with criticism and finding determination 17:40 The growth of media opportunities and awards 19:40 The emotional reality of school presentations 21:20 Why podcasting became necessary for the mission 23:00 Tom explains the strategic podcast development process 25:20 The unexpected business plan outcome 27:10 Tom's approach to working with mission-driven clients 27:50 Public speaking experiences - the biggest audiences 29:20 Speaking to 1,100 people at company conference 30:10 The Ireland drowning prevention conference 32:00 Using humour in difficult presentations 33:20 National Lottery Award and Bear Grylls moment 34:40 The power of communication to create change 35:40 Closing thoughts and next episode preview -------------------------------------------- Connect with Debbie and find out more about her work here: W: www.riverandseasense.com E: debbie@riverandseasense.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverandseasense LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-anne-turnbull-mbe-33190510/

    36 min

  8. SEP 6

    Why Strong Swimmers Drown: Chris's Story | Water Safety Truth - Beyond the Surface Ep. 8

    n this powerful episode, Debbie Anne Turnbull MBE shares the devastating story of how she lost her son, Chris, to drowning. Despite being a strong swimmer, Chris fell victim to cold water shock when he jumped into water that was just 3-4°C - the same temperature as your fridge at home. What You'll Learn: - The reality of cold water shock and how it affects even the strongest swimmers - Why water temperature of 3-4°C is fatal regardless of swimming ability - The "boil" effect and underwater cave dangers that trapped Chris - Float to Live technique that has saved countless lives - Critical water safety awareness every parent needs to know - Why vigilance matters  Key Insights from This Episode: "It happens in a second. It's gone in a second. That's it. It's too late." - Debbie shares the harsh reality of water accidents and the importance of vigilance. Float to Live Technique: Learn the life-saving technique that involves floating with arms outstretched. -------------------------------------------- Connect with Debbie and find out more about her work here: W: www.riverandseasense.com E: debbie@riverandseasense.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverandseasense LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-anne-turnbull-mbe-33190510/

    12 min
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About

Beyond the Surface brings you life-saving water safety education and practical mental well-being tools from someone who truly understands both worlds. Hosted by Debbie Anne Turnbull MBE, this podcast combines the heart of a mother who lost her only son to drowning with the expertise of a professionally trained trauma-informed practitioner and water safety specialist. After transforming her profound grief into purpose, Debbie has worked directly with the RNLI, police, fire services and emergency responders to understand what really keeps families safe around water. Her unique approach makes safety education accessible to busy parents whilst addressing the mental health skills that support both individual wellbeing and family resilience. Each episode delivers powerful conversations, practical and memorable safety knowledge you can implement immediately, alongside mental health ideas that help you manage stress, support others and create lasting positive change.  Whether you're a parent seeking confident water safety knowledge, a professional in caring roles or someone on a healing journey, you'll find actionable insights delivered with authenticity and compassion. Perfect for: Safety-conscious parents, HR and wellbeing professionals, healthcare and education workers, anyone interested in trauma recovery and nervous system health. New episodes every Thursday.

Information

  • Creator
    Debbie Anne Turnbull MBE
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Beyond the Surface
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Surface