The Next Chapter

Luke

The Next Chapter is a podcast about new beginnings, reinvention, and the power of taking ownership over your life. Hosted by Luke Jones—coach, podcast host, and lifelong student of self-development—each episode dives deep into honest stories of transformation, resilience, and practical strategies for building a life you don’t need to escape from. Along the way, we explore the role of manifestation and the magic that happens when you start following your goosebumps—those moments of excitement, intuition, and inspiration that point you toward your next chapter. You’ll hear from everyday people, experts, and inspiring guests who’ve overcome adversity, embraced change, and found the courage to start again—whether it’s breaking free from old patterns, finding purpose, or navigating life’s toughest moments. With a mix of real talk, mindset tools, and actionable tips, The Next Chapter is here to help you create momentum, trust your own journey, and write a new story—one you’re proud to live.

  1. 6d ago

    Episode 21: From Betrayal to Brotherhood: How Mark Cox Rebuilt His Marriage and His Identity

    What do you do when your wife tells you she's done — and you know deep down it's your fault? Mark Cox didn't run. He turned his rock bottom into a mission. In this episode, I sit down with Mark — a former psychiatric nurse turned marriage recovery coach — who opens up about his own infidelity, alcohol, and the moment he realised he was living a double life. We get into the real roots of why men betray the people they love most, what childhood wounds have to do with it, and what it actually takes to rebuild trust from scratch. This one hits hard. But if you're a man who knows something's got to change — in your marriage, your habits, or yourself — this is the episode for you. Chapters... 00:00 Mark's Journey to Becoming a Marriage Recovery Coach  05:42 Understanding Male Infidelity: Causes and Consequences  11:40 The Impact of Childhood Wounds on Adult Relationships  20:44 The Turning Point: Facing the Consequences of Infidelity  24:35 Rebuilding Trust: The Path to Recovery  32:09 The Importance of Inner Work and Community Support  36:49 The Importance of Radical Honesty  39:10 Coaching vs. Therapy: Understanding the Differences  42:07 The Role of Visualisation and Manifestation  47:13 Identity Shifts: Becoming a Better Man  49:31 The Impact of Family on Personal Growth  52:41 Fighting for Marriage: When to Stay or Leave  55:51 Overcoming a Fixed Mindset: The Power of Change  01:01:19 Rebuilding Trust After Betrayal  01:03:23 Advice to My Younger Self: Embracing Truth  01:06:12 The Next Chapter: Growth and Mentorship Connect with Mark.... Website: https://www.markcoxcoaching.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markcoxcoaching/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@markcoxcoaching Send us Fan Mail If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1h 3m
  2. Episode 20: From Circus to Sobriety: Abi King's Raw Journey to an Alcohol-Free Life

    May 16

    Episode 20: From Circus to Sobriety: Abi King's Raw Journey to an Alcohol-Free Life

    She ran away with the circus at 17. By 40, alcohol had taken over. This is Abi King's story. Abi King is an alcohol-free coach and host of The Sober Connection podcast. Originally from the UK, now living in New Zealand, she's turned one of the hardest chapters of her life into a mission — helping others find their way out of the drinking cycle. In this episode we get into the real stuff. Her childhood, the role alcohol played, the moment her kids' comments hit different, the struggle with moderation, and what life actually looks like on the other side. No fluff. No sugar-coating. Just an honest conversation about what it takes to change your life. In this episode: How growing up as an only child shaped her relationship with alcoholRunning away with the circus at 17 — and what that tells you about her characterThe slow creep from social drinking to dependenceWhy moderation never worked — and the moment she knew itHow her kids changed everythingCoping with cravings without reaching for a drinkBuilding community when sobriety changes your social worldThe unexpected transformations that come after you quitChapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Abi's Journey 02:03 — Life in New Zealand and Personal Background 06:04 — Childhood and Early Influences on Drinking 09:57 — Adventurous Spirit and Life Choices 13:59 — The Role of Alcohol in Abi's Life 17:58 — Realisation of a Drinking Problem 21:52 — The Struggle with Moderation and Sobriety 26:04 — Triggers and Coping Mechanisms 29:53 — Impact of Children on the Sobriety Journey 32:27 — The Impact of Sobriety on Family Relationships 37:08 — Coping with Cravings: Strategies That Work 45:28 — Transformations After Sobriety: Personal Growth and Reflection 54:34 — Building a Supportive Community: The Role of Social Media 57:14 — Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Advice for Others Connect with Abi: Instagram —  https://www.instagram.com/levelup.withabi/ Send us Fan Mail If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    59 min
  3. Episode 19: From Drinking to Thriving: Frazer Kendall’s Sobriety Transformation + TikTok Success

    May 10

    Episode 19: From Drinking to Thriving: Frazer Kendall’s Sobriety Transformation + TikTok Success

    What happens when you stop drinking—and start backing yourself properly? In this educational interview, I’m joined by Frazer Kendall, creator of the TikTok DIY platform @fixitwithfraz, as he shares the real story behind his sobriety, personal transformation, and the mindset shift that helped him rebuild his life. We talk about the hidden costs of alcohol (the anxiety, shame, money, and the 'two lives' feeling), the turning point that made him quit, and what early sobriety was really like when social events and relationships felt shaky. Frazer also breaks down how he approaches manifestation in a practical way—pairing belief with inspired action, discipline, and consistency. If you’re trying to go alcohol-free, build confidence, or create a life you’re actually proud of, this episode will land. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Fraser’s background 03:12 Fraser’s TikTok journey and building a brand 06:32 One year sober: what it means to Fraser 07:09 Life before sobriety: struggles and realisations 08:19 The hidden costs of alcohol and living two lives 12:37 The build-up to Fraser’s decision to quit drinking 17:33 The moment of realisation and fear of losing relationships 18:57 The challenges of early sobriety and social events 22:18 Replacing alcohol with achievements and new habits 28:25 Manifestation and visualising goals 36:24 Handling social situations and social anxiety 45:51 The impact of sobriety on confidence and energy 55:36 The role of consistency and inspired action 01:00:25 Support from loved ones and visible changes 01:09:40 Future plans: DIY skills and helping others Connect with and follow Frazer below: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fixitwithfraz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fixitwithfraz/ Send us Fan Mail If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1h 8m
  4. Episode 18: From Martial Arts to Mindset Coaching: Confidence, Vulnerability & Self-Respect | Mitch Simpson

    May 3

    Episode 18: From Martial Arts to Mindset Coaching: Confidence, Vulnerability & Self-Respect | Mitch Simpson

    What does it actually take to rebuild confidence as a man in your 40s, 50s, or beyond—especially when you’ve hit a low point, lost your spark, or feel like you’re just 'getting through' life? In this educational interview, I’m joined by Mitch Simpson—martial arts instructor turned mindset coach—who shares how discipline, self-love, and vulnerability can become the foundation for real personal transformation. We talk about men’s mental health, why ego keeps so many blokes stuck, and how small steps done consistently create big change over time. Mitch also shares practical tools you can use immediately: self-talk and affirmations, breathing and meditation, gratitude, writing for self-reflection, and why getting outdoors can reset your head when life feels heavy. If you’ve been telling yourself 'it’s too late' or 'this is just who I am now,' this episode will challenge that story. Chapters 02:03 Mitch's Personal Journey and Background 03:31 Experiences at Boarding School and Cultural Exposure 04:54 Helping Men Over 40 Rebuild Confidence 05:27 Breaking Ego and Embracing Vulnerability 06:20 Martial Arts as a Life Skill and Discipline Tool 07:44 Martial Arts Styles and Teaching Philosophy 09:34 The Role of Communication and Writing in Growth 10:07 Benefits of Boxing and Martial Arts for Discipline 13:11 Self-Defense and Life Skills in Martial Arts 14:49 Progression and Intensity in Martial Arts Training 15:18 Transition to NLP and Coaching 16:17 The Impact of Personal Transformation Stories 17:41 Teaching Men and Women Differently in Martial Arts 18:37 Respect and Learning from Women in Coaching 19:52 Inspiring Stories of Overcoming Rock Bottom 21:16 Continuing Personal Development and Education 22:35 Dealing with Heartbreak and Low Points 25:41 The Power of Kindness and Support from Others 27:55 The Role of Psychotherapy in Healing 29:42 15 Years of Personal Growth and Reflection 30:10 Daily Affirmations and Self-Confidence Building 31:12 Helping Men Over 50 Rebuild Self-Image 33:01 Structured Learning and Step-by-Step Progression 34:33 Common Patterns in Men's Mental Health 37:39 Encouraging Vulnerability and Openness 39:57 The Role of Nature and Outdoors in Well-Being 43:35 Practicing Gratitude and Self-Love 44:16 Mindset Exercises for Feeling Lost 45:34 Breathing and Meditation for Calmness 47:18 The Power of Self-Talk and Affirmations 50:23 Daily Rituals for Confidence and Self-Love 51:13 The Biggest Lies Men Tell Themselves 52:44 Overcoming Negative Self-Talk 54:12 Following Intuition and Gut Feelings 55:28 Memorable Experiences with Michael Jackson 58:00 Meeting Michael Jackson and His Kindness 01:00:31 The Split Persona of Michael Jackson 01:01:22 What a Confident Man Looks Like in His 50s 01:02:00 Self-Love and Confidence Reflected in the Mirror 01:03:45 The Power of Small Steps and Consistency 01:04:33 The Importance of Writing and Self-Reflection 01:05:03 The Role of Self-Love in Personal Growth 01:07:35 Walking to Work with a Positive Mindset 01:08:02 The Value of Communication and Community 01:08:50 The Danger of Isolation and Negative Self-Talk 01:09:21 Upcoming Online Coaching Program for Men 50-60 01:10:55 Encouragement to Take Small Steps for Change 01:11:19 Living Fully at Any Age 01:12:01 Final Words of Wisdom and Contact Info  Connect with and follow Mitch below: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angels2112/ Send us Fan Mail If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1h 6m
  5. Episode 17: Unlock Your Highest Potential | Rachel Murrey on Intuition, Manifestation & Breaking Societal Conditioning

    Apr 26

    Episode 17: Unlock Your Highest Potential | Rachel Murrey on Intuition, Manifestation & Breaking Societal Conditioning

    In this episode of The Next Chapter, Luke Jones sits down with Rachel Murrey for a powerful conversation about what happens when you stop living by the rules you inherited… and start living by what actually feels true. Rachel shares her journey from corporate life to spiritual awakening, and we get into the real stuff: societal conditioning, people-pleasing, fear, imposter syndrome, and the quiet inner knowing that tells you you’re meant for more. We also explore how tools like astrology and birth charts can support self-discovery, why manifestation isn’t about forcing outcomes, and how surrender + alignment can change everything. If you’ve been feeling stuck, misaligned, or like you’re living someone else’s life — this one will hit home. Key topics we cover: Societal conditioning and how it shapes your choicesThe awakening process and personal transformationTrusting intuition, signs, and synchronicitiesManifestation, surrender, and living in alignmentOvercoming fear, imposter syndrome, and limiting beliefsWhy community matters when you’re changing your lifePractical steps to unlearn old patterns and choose authenticityChapters  00:00 Introduction to Rachel's Journey 01:39 Awakening and Transformation 04:55 Societal Conditioning and Its Impact 07:23 The Outdated School System 09:32 Challenging Societal Norms 10:33 The Process of Unlearning 13:36 Overcoming Fear and People-Pleasing 16:32 The Lies We Tell Ourselves 18:13 The Importance of Intuition 20:09 Manifestation and Alignment 29:31 Navigating Fear and Excitement 33:04 Understanding Astrology and Its Impact 37:34 Unlocking Higher Potential 40:33 Overcoming Common Blocks to Growth 43:41 The Role of Courage in Transformation 48:14 The Importance of Supportive Relationships 52:42 Recognising Signs of Job Misalignment 01:00:20 Resources for Personal Growth 01:02:28 Embracing the Journey of Self-Discovery Connect with Rachel below... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelmurrey/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rachelmurreySend us Fan Mail If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1h 6m
  6. Episode 16: From Tractor Driver to Trauma-Informed Coach: Emma Walsh on Healing, Safety & Self-Belief

    Apr 19

    Episode 16: From Tractor Driver to Trauma-Informed Coach: Emma Walsh on Healing, Safety & Self-Belief

    In this episode of The Next Chapter, I’m joined by Emma Walsh — a trauma-informed coach and entrepreneur — for a proper deep conversation about burnout, nervous system safety, and what trauma can quietly do to your confidence, relationships, and business decisions. Emma breaks down the trauma spectrum (it’s not always the 'big obvious stuff'), why trauma is stored emotion in the body, and how your nervous system is literally trying to keep you safe — even when it’s sabotaging your growth. We talk about emotional regulation, healing childhood and generational patterns, and why authenticity + self-belief aren’t fluffy ideas… they’re the foundation of sustainable success. If you’ve been pushing, grinding, people-pleasing, or feeling like you’re constantly 'on edge' in business (or life), this one will land. We cover: Trauma as a spectrum — and how it impacts businessWhy safety and regulation come before growthHealing childhood trauma + breaking generational cyclesSelf-belief, authenticity, and trusting yourself in businessPivoting when success doesn’t feel fulfilling anymoreChapters: 00:00 Introduction to Emma Walsh and Her Mission 02:16 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact 13:11 Identifying the Struggles of Women Entrepreneurs 18:25 The Importance of Enjoying the Journey 24:13 Reconnecting with Your Inner Child 25:29 Investments and Lessons Learned 29:14 From Tractor Driver to Coach 35:37 The Importance of Safety in Relationships 41:43 Understanding Gender Differences in Emotional Expression 47:35 The Power of Communication in Relationships 51:26 Gratitude and Self-Awareness 56:52 The Possibility of Change and Growth 01:01:49 Navigating Entrepreneurship: When to Pivot 01:11:46 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 01:15:14 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Opportunities Connect with Emma below... Emma on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emma_j_walsh/Emma on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emma_j_walsh Send us Fan Mail If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1h 15m
  7. Episode 15 : Embracing Sobriety & Identity: Eamon Kearney's 'Long Way Home'.

    Apr 12

    Episode 15 : Embracing Sobriety & Identity: Eamon Kearney's 'Long Way Home'.

    What happens when you realise alcohol has become your “home”… and you decide to burn that version of home to the ground? In this episode of The Next Chapter, I’m joined by Eamon Kearney —Irish immigrant living in Massachusetts, father, sober runner, and author of the upcoming memoir 'The Long Way Home.' We get into the real stuff: adoption, early trauma, Irish drinking culture, and how learned behaviour can quietly wire addiction into your identity. Eamon shares the moment he hit a low point, what finally made him choose sobriety, and why running became the anchor that helped him rebuild discipline, clarity, and self-respect. We also talk about redefining what 'home' actually means when you’re sober—and how fatherhood can become the reason you break the cycle for good. If you’re questioning your relationship with alcohol, struggling with identity, or trying to become the dad your kids deserve—this one will hit. Chapters... 00:00 Intro – Eamon’s Kearney story in a sentence 01:12 Who is Eamon ? (father, sober runner, immigrant, author) 03:05 Adoption, early trauma, and the search for belonging 06:10 Growing up around alcohol: “learned behaviour” and Irish culture 09:25 When drinking becomes identity (and why it’s so hard to quit) 12:40 The turning point: hitting a new low 15:30 Choosing sobriety in 2022 – what changed? 18:10 Running as an anchor: discipline, routine, mental clarity 22:05 The mind in recovery: self-reflection and healing 25:30 Fatherhood after sobriety: showing up and breaking the cycle 29:10 Redefining “home” — from a place to a feeling 33:20 Building a life that supports sobriety (people, environment, habits) 37:05 Eamon’s memoir “The Long Way Home” — what it’s really about 40:10 Practical takeaways for anyone trying to quit drinking 43:00 Final words + where to find Eamon Find Eamon on TikTok below... https://www.tiktok.com/@irish_sober_strider Send us Fan Mail If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    1h 10m
  8. Episode 14: Small Wins, Big Change: The Psychology of Consistency with Alex Watts...

    Apr 5

    Episode 14: Small Wins, Big Change: The Psychology of Consistency with Alex Watts...

    In this episode of The Next Chapter, Luke Jones sits down with mindset + fitness coach Alex Watts to unpack the psychology behind consistency — and why so many busy people fall into the start/stop cycle. Alex Watts is a mindset and fitness coach who helps full-time professionals get back in shape without forcing extreme routines. After struggling with inconsistency himself, he developed the No-Force Method, a simple approach to fat loss that fits around real life and makes consistency feel natural. You’ll learn how to make fitness feel natural (not forced), using identity shift, small wins, and a “bare minimum” approach for the weeks when life is stressful and your motivation is on the floor. What we cover The psychology behind exercise, consistency, and work ethicWhy exercise is one of the best tools for mental healthThe most common mental barriers (and the lies we tell ourselves)Breaking all-or-nothing thinkingThe Identity Shift: becoming the type of person who trainsThe Small Wins Strategy: building momentum without burnoutThe Bare Minimum Protocol: staying on track when life gets busyAccountability + boundaries to protect your fitness time Chapters... 00:00 Introduction to Mindset and Fitness Coaching  06:04 Overcoming Adversity: The Journey to Coaching  10:33 The Psychology of Exercise and Consistency  14:38 The Mental Battle: Why We Avoid Exercise  18:29 Common Lies We Tell Ourselves  22:00 The Importance of Mindset in Fitness  26:43 The Journey: Small Steps to Big Changes  27:09 The Rocket Launch: Building Momentum in Fitness  28:12 Breaking the All-or-Nothing Mindset  31:12 The No Force Method: Making Fitness Natural  34:33 Self-Awareness and Time Management for Fitness  36:43 Reconnecting with Identity and Setting Boundaries  39:46 Confidence Killers: Identity and Self-Worth  41:32 Building Self-Respect Through Small Actions  43:07 Warning Signs of Falling Off the Wagon  44:57 The Importance of Accountability  47:15 Consistency: A Skill to Build  48:35 You’re Closer Than You Think: Overcoming Mental Barriers  51:15 Advice to My Younger Self: Embracing Change Naturally  52:14 Future Aspirations: Growing and Helping Others Catch up with Alex... Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/alexjwatts_/YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@AlexWattsCoachingResources Eat That Frog (book):  https://www.amazon.com/Eat-Frog-Get-Things-Done/dp/1626569770 Send us Fan Mail If you got value from this episode, don’t just sit on it—take action.  Like, subscribe, and follow the show—it makes a massive difference and helps us reach more people who need to hear these stories.  Share this with a mate who needs the truth, leave a review, and remember: change doesn’t happen by accident.  It happens when you get honest, do the work, and show up for yourself and your family. Stay real, stay relentless, and keep building your legacy—one choice at a time. For more hard-hitting stories and practical tools, follow, subscribe, and join the conversation. Let’s be real: your next chapter starts now...

    51 min

About

The Next Chapter is a podcast about new beginnings, reinvention, and the power of taking ownership over your life. Hosted by Luke Jones—coach, podcast host, and lifelong student of self-development—each episode dives deep into honest stories of transformation, resilience, and practical strategies for building a life you don’t need to escape from. Along the way, we explore the role of manifestation and the magic that happens when you start following your goosebumps—those moments of excitement, intuition, and inspiration that point you toward your next chapter. You’ll hear from everyday people, experts, and inspiring guests who’ve overcome adversity, embraced change, and found the courage to start again—whether it’s breaking free from old patterns, finding purpose, or navigating life’s toughest moments. With a mix of real talk, mindset tools, and actionable tips, The Next Chapter is here to help you create momentum, trust your own journey, and write a new story—one you’re proud to live.