The Idea Junkies Podcast

• 008 Owning Your Narrative, with Nishma Patel Robb

  Nishma Patel Robb has transformed storytelling into a superpower. The former head of marketing for Google and Youtube, she is a champion of creativity, of building a personal brand, and is now on a mission to empower women to own their narratives. She discusses how standing out beats fitting in, why financial empowerment is essential for real change, and how embracing your uniqueness is the key to success.Episode 008 - Show NotesEpisode Title:Owning Your Narrative with Nishma Patel RobbEpisode Description:In this episode of The Idea Junkies Podcast, host Laura Richards is joined by Nishma Patel Robb, former Head of Marketing for Google and a trailblazing entrepreneur now leading the charge to empower women through her new venture, The Glittersphere. Nishma has spent years transforming the digital landscape for brands like YouTube and Google, and is now focused on helping women be seen, heard, and celebrated in leadership, technology, and entrepreneurship.This conversation is a behind-the-curtain peek into Nishma’s journey from corporate titan to visionary founder, revealing her passion for storytelling and creativity as tools for change. Nishma shares her candid insights into the advertising industry’s “blandemic,” the urgent need to amplify women's voices, and her dedication to providing practical solutions for women to thrive in male-dominated spaces.We dive into:* How creativity and authenticity remain the most powerful tools for connection in a content-saturated world.* The Glittersphere’s mission to empower women to build their personal brands, access investment, and take control of their economic futures.* Why innovation and creativity are essential to breaking the cycle of boring, forgettable content.* How ensuring women aren’t left behind in the AI revolution and embracing continuous learning is key to staying relevant.Nishma’s practical approach to storytelling, empowerment, and leadership proves that embracing your uniqueness is the key to real success.Episode Breakdown:Laura begins by introducing her guest, Nishma Patel Robb, highlighting her impressive career journey from Head of Marketing at Google to founding The Glittersphere, a platform dedicated to empowering women to own their narratives and thrive in leadership, technology, and entrepreneurship.The conversation starts with Nishma sharing her background, from launching YouTube as a commercial platform in the UK to her current mission of providing women with the tools to amplify their voices and achieve economic empowerment. She explains how her passion for storytelling and creativity has shaped her approach to leadership and innovation.Nishma then discusses the concept of the “blandemic” in advertising and creativity. She explains how the drive for efficiency and conformity has led to uninspired content and why storytelling and authenticity are more important than ever for connecting with audiences and creating lasting impact. Next, Nishma introduces The Glittersphere and its mission to support women in building their personal brands, accessing investment, and embracing their uniqueness. She shares practical advice on standing out, building confidence, and finding your voice in a crowded world.The conversation also explores the importance of economic empowerment and how financial independence is essential for creating real change. Nishma emphasises the need for women to control their careers, investments, and personal growth to truly thrive. Nishma and Laura then touch on the intersection of gender and technology, with Nishma warning of the dangers of women being left behind in the AI revolution and stressing the importance of continuous learning.The episode wraps up with Nishma’s key takeaway: standing out is more important than fitting in. She encourages listeners to embrace their uniqueness, own their stories, and use their voices to create the change they want to see.Links and Resources:* Join the Glittersphere: glittersphere.com* Follow the Glittersphere on Instagram * Follow Nishma on Instagram* Connect with Nishma on LinkedInIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to step into their brilliance. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ideajunkies.substack.com

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• 007 The Art of Adventure, with Alastair Humphreys

  Adventure isn’t about where you go, it’s about how you see the world. In this episode, professional adventurer and bestselling author Alastair Humphreys joins Laura Richards to explore the power of adventure, from cycling across continents to embracing microadventures and the doorstep mile. He breaks down why stepping outside your comfort zone - whether through an epic expedition or a single night under the stars - can transform your perspective, reconnect you with nature, and spark a deeper sense of fulfilment. Episode 007 - Show NotesEpisode Title:The Art of Adventure, with Alastair HumphreysEpisode Description:In this episode of The Idea Junkies Podcast, host Laura Richards is joined by professional adventurer, author, and filmmaker Alastair Humphreys. Alastair has cycled around the world, rowed across the Atlantic, and trekked across deserts… but perhaps most inspiring of all is his mission to make adventure accessible to everyone.From epic global expeditions to the power of microadventures and the doorstep mile, Alastair shares how stepping outside your comfort zone doesn’t have to mean spending months away or spending a fortune. Whether it’s wild camping near home, sleeping under the stars midweek, or simply taking a different path on a daily walk, this episode is packed with ideas on how small acts of adventure can change your perspective, reconnect you with nature, and enrich your life.We also explore the philosophy behind embracing discomfort, why adventure isn’t about geography but mindset, and how breaking free from routine (even in the smallest ways) can spark joy, creativity, and resilience. If you’ve ever dreamed of adventure but thought it was out of reach, make sure you hit subscribe. This conversation might just change the way you see the world around you.Episode Breakdown:Laura kicks off the episode by introducing Alastair Humphreys and discussing his incredible career in adventure. Alastair shares his journey from undertaking extreme expeditions, such as cycling around the world and rowing across the Atlantic, to redefining adventure through the concept of microadventures.The conversation turns to the barriers people face when it comes to adventure: lack of time, money, confidence, and the belief that adventure is reserved for elite explorers. Alastair breaks down why adventure is a state of mind rather than a destination and explains how anyone can start small, whether it’s an overnight camp near home or a new local route.Laura and Alastair discuss his trek across Spain without money, relying solely on his ability to busk with a violin - a trip that, despite being smaller in scale than previous journeys, became one of his most powerful experiences. They explore how the challenge of stepping into vulnerability, whether through physical endurance or social discomfort, can be transformative.From here, they dive into the rise of extreme endurance challenges like cold-water swimming and ultra-marathons, and why more people are embracing physical and mental discomfort to reconnect with a sense of achievement and self-discovery. Alastair shares why seeing others push boundaries helps shift our own beliefs about what’s possible.The discussion then moves to comparison culture, particularly on social media, and how it can either inspire or paralyse. Alastair emphasises the importance of focusing on your own journey rather than measuring experiences against others. He shares why the best adventure is the one you actually do, not the one you only dream about.Laura and Alastair then explore his latest project, Local, which focuses on finding adventure within a single map square. He shares how exploring his immediate surroundings gave him a deeper appreciation for nature, local history, and even political issues like land access and conservation. They discuss how small actions like litter picking, exploring neglected areas, and engaging with local spaces, can collectively make a significant impact.As the conversation wraps up, Alastair shares his final thought: “One day or day one. You decide.” A reminder that adventure, change, and new experiences don’t have to wait for the perfect moment - the best time to start is now.Links and Resources:* Learn more about Alastair Humphreys: www.alastairhumphreys.com* Read Microadventures* Read Local* Watch My Midsummer Morning documentary: * Follow Alastair on Instagram* Connect on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/Al_Humphreys If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a little more adventure in their life! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ideajunkies.substack.com

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• 006 How to make the internet a better place, with KP

  Karthik Puvvada (KP) turned transparency into a superpower by building in public, growing online communities, and embracing permissionless giving. He shares how openly sharing your work accelerates growth, why helping others without expectation creates deeper connections, and why playing the long game is the key to success.Episode 006 - Show NotesEpisode Title: How to make the internet a better place, with KP Episode description:In this episode of The Idea Junkies Podcast, host Laura Richards is joined by Karthik Puvvada (KP), a builder, community leader, and advocate for building in public and permissionless giving. KP has spent years cultivating online communities, sharing his work transparently, and helping others navigate the startup and creator journey.This conversation explores how building in public can transform not only your career but also your mindset. KP shares the lessons he's learned from launching multiple startups, growing an audience, and leveraging online spaces for meaningful connections. If you’ve ever wondered how to gain traction for your ideas or how to feel better when online, KP offers a wealth of insight.We dive into:* Why building in public is a powerful way to accelerate feedback loops, engage an audience, and create stronger connections.* The concept of permissionless giving and how small, intentional acts of generosity can compound over time.* Why playing the long game is the real key to success in startups, content creation, and life in general.* The role of community in overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome, and how surrounding yourself with the right people can be a game-changer.* Why the biggest mistake founders and creators make is expecting overnight success rather than embracing the process.If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, felt stuck in your creative process, or wondered how to make your online presence more impactful, this episode is for you. KP’s approach is refreshingly simple yet deeply effective; he proves that trust, generosity, and consistency can take you further than any growth hack ever could.Episode breakdown:Laura begins by introducing the topic of the episode and her guest, KP, highlighting his experience in building in public, online communities, and startups. KP shares his background, from launching side projects to his current work at Paddle, where he runs the AI Launchpad accelerator.The conversation moves to the concept of building in public. KP explains how this approach helps founders and creators receive faster feedback, engage an audience, and refine their ideas more effectively. He shares his own experiences of launching projects and discusses why transparency builds trust.Next, KP introduces permissionless giving - the idea of helping others without expecting anything in return. He shares examples of small yet impactful actions, such as engaging with people’s content, making introductions, and offering support, that can create a more positive online space and lead to meaningful connections.KP then discusses the importance of playing the long game. He reflects on his journey of growing an audience and building trust over time, explaining why many people quit too early. He highlights how embracing a long-term mindset leads to sustainable success and deeper relationships.As the discussion continues, KP and Laura explore the challenges of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. KP shares how joining the right communities (whether through mentors or peers) can provide the support and encouragement needed to push past limiting beliefs.The episode wraps up with final thoughts from KP, who leaves listeners with a key takeaway: play the long game. Whether launching a startup, building an audience, or learning a new skill, patience and consistency will always win.Links and resources:* Visit KP’s website: thisiskp.com* Subscribe to his Substack: KP * Follow KP on X/Twitter: @thisiskp_ * Listen to KP’s Building in Public podcast: YouTube* Learn more about Paddle’s AI Launchpad: paddle.comIf you enjoyed this episode, we’d love you to share it with someone who needs to hear that success is about the long game, not the quick wins. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ideajunkies.substack.com

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• 005 The science of spirituality, with Donna Elliott and Cheryl Reid of Now Is Your Time

  Donna Elliott and Cheryl Reid walked away from corporate careers to launch a global movement to help people become the best versions of themselves. They break down how quantum physics and neuroscience shape our identities, beliefs and transformations, explaining how reprogramming our minds can shift our reality and help us unlock our full potential.Episode 005 - Show NotesEpisode Title:The Science of Spirituality, with Donna Elliott and Cheryl ReidEpisode Description:In this episode of The Idea Junkies Podcast, host Laura Richards is joined by Donna Elliott and Cheryl Reid, co-founders of Now Is Your Time, TEDx speakers, Amazon bestselling authors, and transformational coaches who have impacted thousands of lives worldwide - including Laura’s.This conversation bridges the gap between science and spirituality, making complex ideas accessible for both sceptics and believers. If you’ve ever been curious about the science behind manifesting, or questioned whether there’s more to the universe than what we see, Donna and Cheryl have answers that will challenge and inspire you. They explore the principles of quantum physics, neuroscience, and the power of thought, explaining how our beliefs shape our lives in ways we might not even realise.For those who have dismissed affirmations and manifestation as just another TikTok trend, this discussion uncovers the real science and psychology behind these ideas. From Imposter Syndrome to identity shifts, this episode is about breaking limitations and stepping into your power.If you’ve ever felt stuck, doubted your own potential, or wondered if there’s more to life than what you’ve been told, then this episode is the permission you've been waiting for to live life on your terms. Episode Breakdown:Laura begins by introducing the topic of the episode and her guests, Donna Elliott and Cheryl Reid, highlighting their backgrounds in mindset, neuroscience, and spirituality. Donna and Cheryl reflect on their journey from corporate leadership to transformational coaching, discussing how they made the shift and what inspired them to create Now Is Your Time.The conversation then moves to the pivotal moment that led to the launch of Now Is Your Time. Donna and Cheryl share how personal events triggered their decision to leave the corporate world, the importance of role models in seeing what’s possible, and the limiting beliefs that initially held them back from embracing entrepreneurship.Next, they break down the link between science and spirituality, explaining the Observer Effect and how our thoughts actively shape reality. They provide a straightforward introduction to quantum physics and discuss how neuroscience supports the idea that changing our beliefs can change our lives. They also explore the deep connection between identity, mindset, and manifestation, showing how practical science and metaphysical ideas align.As the discussion deepens, they tackle the topic of limiting beliefs, particularly Imposter Syndrome. They reveal how subconscious programming keeps us stuck in repeating patterns, why our brains resist change, and the methods we can use to challenge and rewrite these internal narratives. The conversation then shifts to the impact of energy on our lives, explaining what energy healing is and how our thoughts create fields that influence our reality. They address the longstanding overlap between ancient spiritual wisdom and modern scientific findings.Donna and Cheryl then explore the idea of the ‘Witch Wound’—the historical and cultural factors that have discouraged women from embracing their full power. They discuss why more women are reconnecting with ancient wisdom, how societal conditioning has played a role in suppressing intuitive and spiritual knowledge, and the current shift as more women step into leadership and self-trust.To help listeners put these ideas into action, Donna and Cheryl outline practical steps for transformation. They discuss how to consciously shift mindset and energy, the importance of community and coaching, and why it’s never too late to rewrite personal stories. They emphasise the role of self-belief and practical strategies in stepping into a more empowered life.The episode closes with final thoughts from both guests. Cheryl leaves listeners with the reminder, “Don’t believe everything you think,” while Donna encourages everyone to recognise their own potential, saying, “You are more powerful than you give yourself credit for. Get smart and learn how to use that power.”Thanks for listening to The Idea Junkies Podcast. Subscribe for free to be the first to hear about new episodes.Links and Resources:* Learn more about Now Is Your Time at nowisyourtimeto.com* Follow Donna Elliott & Cheryl Reid on Instagram* Join their free online community, The Soul System on Facebook* Connect on LinkedIn: Donna Elliott | Cheryl ReidIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear that they are more powerful.If you enjoyed this episode, we’d love it if you could share it with your own communities, friends and family. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ideajunkies.substack.com

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• 004 Turning milliseconds into game-changing moments, with Mel O’Connor

  Mel O’Connor spent over a decade working on an idea that no one else believed in - until the science proved him right. In this episode, he shares how Okkulo is transforming the way athletes train by sharpening their vision, decision-making, and reaction times, and reveals the unexpected benefits beyond sport.Episode 004 - Show notesEpisode Title:Turning milliseconds into game-changing moments, with Mel O’ConnorEpisode Description:In this episode of The Idea Junkies Podcast, host Laura Richards is joined by Mel O’Connor, CEO of Okkulo, a sports technology company transforming how athletes train. But Okkulo’s impact reaches beyond sport.Mel’s journey is one of perseverance. He started out his career as a semi-professional footballer, shifting into costume design for film and TV, and ultimately ended up pioneering a system that challenges the way we think about reaction times, decision-making, and human performance. The science behind Okkulo shows that training the way we perceive movement can give players more time to think, act, and execute under pressure.Athletes who train with Okkulo see the game differently, literally. The results speak for themselves, but the applications go further than elite sport. Mel shares how this approach is showing incredible potential for people with ADHD, sensory processing challenges, and even brain injury recovery.Mel shares how decades of persistence turned a wild idea into a scientifically backed innovation which is now being used by top sports teams around the world, and how vision training could soon be a household essential - just like wearable fitness trackers. This conversation is about pushing boundaries, backing bold ideas (even when other people say “no”), and reframing what’s possible when we look at performance through a new lens. If you’re fascinated by the intersection of science, tech, and human performance, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.What We Cover:* How vision training influences decision-making and reaction times* The story behind Okkulo and the research that shaped it* What happens when you challenge an athlete’s perception of speed* Unexpected benefits—ADHD, sensory processing, and rehabilitation* The role of perseverance in bringing game-changing ideas to life* The future of vision training in sport and beyondLinks and Resources:Learn more about Okkulo: www.okkulo.comFollow Mel O’Connor on LinkedIn: Mel O’ConnorIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who believes (like us!) in the power of perseverance and game-changing ideas. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ideajunkies.substack.com

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