The Bouncebackability Podcast

Rusty Earnshaw and Simon Ursell
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  • Self-Improvement
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How to thrive not just survive in challenging times. Hosts Simon Ursell and Rusty Earnshaw talk to the change makers, leaders and mavericks in sport, business and beyond about what happens when we’re faced with tough challenges - and how to use these situations to challenge our thinking, resulting in more productive and rewarding outcomes. Together with their guests, they’ll share their experiences and unpack how they have reacted to their biggest challenges, covering some enlightening topics such as:👉 How the brain works when you are put under stress.👉 How to get focused in a flow state to make good decisions.👉 What people who thrive under stress think and do – and more.Remember to like, subscribe or follow so you're notified of new episodes, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/We hope you enjoy the show!  

  1. Curiosity and Connection: The conversations that stayed with us | Episode 40

    5d ago

    Curiosity and Connection: The conversations that stayed with us | Episode 40

    In this episode, Simon and Rusty catch up on recent podcast highlights and revisit the interviews that have ignited conversations. From Polly Brooks MBE’s inspiring approach to life to Clare Sadler’s fresh take on human performance, they explore the ideas that have stayed with them and their listeners. There’s also time for a few laughs as they reflect on the popularity of The Wives’ Special. The conversation touches on resilience, relationships, leadership, and self-awareness, with stories from coaching, business, and everyday life. With personal updates and a look ahead to future guests, this episode is a reminder that growth often comes from staying curious, connected, and open to new experiences. In this episode: Reflections on the powerful lessons shared by Polly Brooks MBE and Clare Sadler Why taking risks, embracing experimentation, and learning from failure matter The importance of supporting the whole person in leadership, coaching, and work Personal insights on resilience, transitions, wellbeing, and self-awareness Looking ahead to new guests, fresh conversations, and continued learning togetherPlease like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

    38 min
  2. BONUS EPISODE: The Formula for Success with Clare Sadler | Episode 39

    Jun 10 ·  Bonus

    BONUS EPISODE: The Formula for Success with Clare Sadler | Episode 39

    In this bonus episode, Simon is joined once again by Clare Sadler to take a deeper dive into one of the core ideas behind human performance: Performance = Access to Capability. Clare unpacks why success isn't determined by mindset, motivation, or even how much training we've done, but by our ability to access the skills and capabilities we already possess when it matters most. Using examples from elite sport, including Formula 1 and football, Clare explains how pressure, uncertainty, and cognitive load can restrict access to our capabilities. The conversation explores why creating certainty through routines, environments, and clear signals allows people to perform more consistently under pressure. Practical, thought-provoking, and immediately applicable, this episode offers a fresh perspective on what really drives success—and why reducing load, rather than increasing effort, may be the key to unlocking hidden potential. In this BONUS episode: Clare's formula for success: why performance equals access to capabilityThe "pipeline" analogy and how pressure can restrict access to our skillsWhy certainty, not confidence or motivation, is the foundation of performanceLessons from Formula 1 and elite football on routines and consistency under pressureHow reducing load can unlock hidden capacity and improve performanceListen now to Clares full interview with Simon and Rusty – Performance Under Load with Clare Sadler | Episode 38   Find out more about Clare and her work here: LinkedIn Beyond Instinct Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

    11 min
  3. The Hidden Architecture of Human Performance Under Load with Clare Sadler | Episode 38

    May 26

    The Hidden Architecture of Human Performance Under Load with Clare Sadler | Episode 38

    In this episode, Simon and Rusty sit down with Clare Sadler, founder of Beyond Instinct, to explore the architecture behind performance under load.  Clare draws on the architecture of Human Systems Development — the discipline that shows what drives human performance under load and what determines whether capability becomes available, collapses or expands. The discipline is underpinned by decades of her work across elite sport, Olympic programmes, defence and intelligence‑related contexts, and complex leadership environments. Rather than simply working harder or adding more skills, she shows how the real opportunity lies in understanding the human system itself. The conversation challenges common assumptions around performance and the brain, revealing how people can access greater clarity, capacity and precision in high‑load moments. Clare shows how this architecture reframes resilience and performance, and how making these underlying mechanisms visible helps individuals, teams and organisations unlock hidden capacity in real time. Grounded, practical and thought‑provoking, this episode explores what becomes possible when people learn to leverage the architecture that drives human behaviour and performance.  In this episode: The conditions that determine whether capability becomes available, collapses or expandsWhy simply pushing harder is the wrong answer in high‑performance environmentsHow misconceptions and inaccurate neuroscience about how the brain operates under load and challenge lead to wasted effort and inconsistent resultsHow elite teams and leaders create clarity, precision and decision quality in complex situationsFind out more about Clare and her work here: LinkedIn Beyond Instinct Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

    1h 14m
  4. The One With the Wives: Hobbies, headspace and happiness | Episode 37

    Apr 28

    The One With the Wives: Hobbies, headspace and happiness | Episode 37

    A bit of a different one today! Rusty and Simon are joined by their wives, Jenny and Amy, for a post-lunch chat packed with funny and honest takes on hobbies (or lack thereof), mindfulness, and the real challenge of making time to properly switch off. From pottery and painting to sound baths, yoga, and  the simple act of staring out the window, they explore how creative outlets and shared moments can boost wellbeing – especially need while navigating parenting, screen time, and the pace of modern life. Full of laughs and relatable stories, this episode is a reminder that the small things we enjoy can make a big difference to balance, connection, and overall happiness. In this episode: ·         The role of hobbies like pottery, painting, and chess in supporting mindfulness and wellbeing ·          Balancing personal interests with parenting and family life  ·         The impact of technology, screen time, and growing up in a digital world  ·         Humour, habits, and everyday quirks that shape how we unwind  ·         Rediscovering creativity and social connection as key drivers of resilience   Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

    49 min
  5. Pressure, Pause, Perform: Finding Balance in a Busy World | Episode 36

    Mar 24

    Pressure, Pause, Perform: Finding Balance in a Busy World | Episode 36

    Ever wondered how some people bounce back from setbacks while others burn out? In this episode, Simon and Rusty catch up and chat about resilience during busy, demanding times in work and life. They dig into the pressures of always performing at a high level and why taking time to recover really matters. They share stories, coaching reflections, and analogies to explore how leaders and teams can create environments where people feel supported and able to grow. They also explore the value of downtime, mindful pauses, and simple routines that help keep life in balance, wrapping up with a some personal intentions for looking after themselves better in the month ahead. In this episode: ·         Resilience and Bouncebackability: How people and teams deal with setbacks, and why being able to bounce back is such an important skill. ·         The Cost of Constant Busyness: The toll of always being “on” and the importance of making space to recover. ·         Stories as Leadership Tools: How stories and analogies—like Aesop’s fable about hidden gold—can help land simple but powerful leadership messages. ·         Building Supportive Environments: Exploring how teams, communities, and culture help people feel supported when things get tough. ·         Pressure and Expectations in Performance: Lessons from sport and coaching on managing expectations while keeping perspective. ·         Mindfulness, Boredom, and Downtime: Why slowing down—and even being a bit bored sometimes—can actually be good for us. ·         Rituals, Reflection, and Personal Growth: How small habits like exercise and reflection can make a big difference over time. Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

    42 min
  6. Surviving the Bali Bombings and Building Dan’s Fund for Burns with Polly Brooks MBE | Episode 35

    Feb 24

    Surviving the Bali Bombings and Building Dan’s Fund for Burns with Polly Brooks MBE | Episode 35

    This episode contains strong language and discussions of sensitive topics, including mental health and suicide. These conversations may be distressing. If you or someone you know is struggling, we encourage you to seek support. You can contact the Samaritans at 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org. Please listen mindfully and prioritise your well-being.  In this powerful episode, Simon and Rusty are joined by Polly Brooks (Miller) MBE, founder of Dan’s Fund for Burns, to share her extraordinary journey of survival and resilience following the 2002 Bali bombings. Losing her husband and close friends, and sustaining life-changing burns herself, Polly transformed tragedy into purpose by creating a charity that has supported thousands of burn survivors across the UK. They explore the role of community, family, and personal rituals in healing, and the strength found in taking action despite immense adversity.   Polly founded and continues to lead the charity, providing practical, emotional, and financial support to adult burn survivors. Since its creation, the charity has raised millions, funded specialist NHS roles and equipment, and built national peer-support networks - all driven by Polly’s dedication to improving the lives of those affected by burns.   Visit https://dansfundforburns.org/ for more information   In this episode:  Polly’s Story: Surviving the Bali bombings and the immediate aftermath of the attack.The Long Road to Recovery: Physical rehabilitation, emotional healing, and rebuilding life after trauma.From Tragedy to Purpose: The inspiration behind founding Dan’s Fund for Burns.Building a Charity from the Ground Up: Early challenges and milestones in creating nationwide support.Community and Family in Healing: The vital role of relationships in recovery and resilience.Supporting Burn Survivors Today: Grants, peer-support networks, and practical assistance provided by the charity.Rituals, Reflection, and Living with Loss: How Polly honours loved ones while continuing forward.The Ripple Effect of Compassion: How one act of purpose can transform thousands of lives.Lessons in Resilience: Insights on facing adversity and maintaining hope.Looking Ahead: Polly’s ongoing mission and the future vision for burn survivor support in the UK.  Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:    https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

    58 min
  7. 2026: Skip the Resolutions, Try This Instead | Episode 34

    Jan 27

    2026: Skip the Resolutions, Try This Instead | Episode 34

    In this episode, Rusty and Simon dive into getting back to work after the holidays, adjusting routines, and the joy of reconnecting with family and friends. They explore the restorative power of nature, why intentions beat resolutions, and how small, meaningful actions create a ripple effect. Simon also shares his experience with the Letters to Our Sons project, and how mindfulness, emotional awareness, and the power of community are more important than ever this year. Key Moments: New Year Reflections: transitioning back to work and post-holiday energy levels.The Value of Connection: Highlighting meaningful reconnections with family and friends over the holidays.Nature as Therapy: the restorative effects of cold water swims, hiking in Portugal, and the role of nature in wellbeing.Anti-Resolution: why setting intentions can be more sustainable and fulfilling than rigid New Year’s resolutions.Letters to Sons & the Ripple Effects: Rusty shares a heartfelt project and reflects on how small, meaningful actions extend far beyond their origin.Community in Sport: Lessons from inclusive French rugby communities and their contrast with professional sports in the UK.Intention vs. Resolution: Focusing on self-compassion, family time, and adventure rather than strict goal-setting.Mindfulness & Emotional Awareness: The importance of pausing, reflection, and building healthy relationships with emotions.Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

    39 min
  8. The Power of Pause: Xmas special with Suzanne Brown and Luke Doherty | Episode 33

    12/16/2025

    The Power of Pause: Xmas special with Suzanne Brown and Luke Doherty | Episode 33

    In the final episode of 2025, Simon and Rusty are joined by Suzanne Brown and Luke Doherty for a lively conversation on resilience, connection, and the power of pause. They discuss moving beyond basic resilience to a more integrated approach, incorporating mindfulness, presence, and how the support of a strong community can build true resilience. If you’re interested in deepening team connection and its relationship to communities, this episode is for you. Episode 12 with Luke Doherty Episode 04 with Suzanne Brown And for more on Polarity – as touched on by Simon at the end of the pod – listen to episode 32 here. About our guests: Suzanne is a Clinical Psychologist, Emotional Fitness Consultant, and the brilliant mind behind Emotionally Connected, a specialised psychology consultancy merging clinical psychology with elite performance. Her innovative approach empowers us to actively address our mental health through immersive and captivating methods. https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsuzannebrown/     Luke is Managing Director of Mindful Peak Performance, and combines elite rugby experience with advanced mindfulness training from Breathworks and Oxford University. He delivers bespoke mindfulness programs for leading athletes and executives and created a unique boxing-and-mindfulness network supporting disadvantaged young people with powerful results. linkedin.com/in/luke-doherty-mindful-peak-performance     Key Moments:  [00:03:36] Welcoming Suzanne Brown and Luke Doherty – what’s new. [00:06:26] Suzanne on Personal Growth and Following Mystery - personal evolution & embracing life’s unfolding mysteries. [00:11:01] Receiving and Embracing Compliments – can we reframe it as a gratitude practice.  [00:12:14] Resilience to Reverence – Changing Workshop Themes and wordplay [00:16:16] Community and Connection as Core to Resilience - creating intentional spaces for resilience. [00:21:11] Pause, What a Pleasure – Practical Tools for Adversity during challenging times. [00:29:19] Empowering Communities Through Mindfulness Training  - empowering local leaders. [00:37:57] Exploring Us vs. Them Mentalities in Sport and Life - negative effects if left unchecked. [00:47:15] End-of-Show Reflection - Gratitude and Bouncebackability Tips     Please like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:    https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/

    1h 8m
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About

How to thrive not just survive in challenging times. Hosts Simon Ursell and Rusty Earnshaw talk to the change makers, leaders and mavericks in sport, business and beyond about what happens when we’re faced with tough challenges - and how to use these situations to challenge our thinking, resulting in more productive and rewarding outcomes. Together with their guests, they’ll share their experiences and unpack how they have reacted to their biggest challenges, covering some enlightening topics such as:👉 How the brain works when you are put under stress.👉 How to get focused in a flow state to make good decisions.👉 What people who thrive under stress think and do – and more.Remember to like, subscribe or follow so you're notified of new episodes, and if you're keen to reach Rusty or Simon with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bouncebackability-podcast/We hope you enjoy the show!  

Information

  • Creator
    Rusty Earnshaw and Simon Ursell
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Bouncebackability Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Bouncebackability Podcast

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