Advertise on podcast: Being Human Hidden Depths

What if self-love wasn’t something we had to earn, but something we were born with? In this heartfelt conversation, Michelle Baer, author of Heart Full of Love and Heart Full of Empathy, joins Gill Tiney to explore children’s emotional wellbeing, intrinsic self-worth, empathy, and the power of purpose-driven storytelling. Michelle shares how observing her granddaughter sparked a realization: children are born whole, loving, and confident, until societal labels and external validation begin to erode that truth.  The episode dives into why nurturing self-love and empathy early in life is essential, especially in a world shaped by comparison, pressure, and digital influence. Michelle explains how her books gently address complex topics such as mental health, parental imprisonment, physical differences, and non-traditional identities, without shame, judgment, or fear, creating safe emotional spaces for both children and parents. Beyond the message, Michelle opens up about the realities of publishing a book, from the cathartic act of writing to the practical challenges of editing, illustrating, self-publishing, and marketing. She highlights the importance of collaboration, community support, and asking for help when bringing creative ideas into the world. Together, Gill and Michelle reflect on why these books resonate just as deeply with adults as they do with children, the role schools and educators play in emotional development, and why helping young people pursue what lights them up, sports, arts, or creative passions, builds confidence, belonging, and resilience. This episode is a reminder that love and empathy are not soft skills, they are life skills.

What happens when you stop masking who you are, and start building a life and business that feels alive? In this deeply human conversation, David Abel, founder of The Digital Lightbulb, joins Jill Tiney to explore authenticity, undiagnosed ADHD, inner genius, and the power of community over transactional success. David shares how years of masking his true self led to exhaustion, and how embracing authenticity unlocked creativity, connection, and purpose-driven work. Together, they discuss why most people have a “blind spot” to their own genius, the importance of external feedback, and how meaningful relationships help us recognize strengths we often overlook. Gill expands on the ethos behind Collaboration Global, a community built on mutual support, human connection, and contribution rather than status or networking optics. The episode also dives into parenting in a digital world, screen addiction, intergenerational wisdom, and the importance of open dialogue within families. From simple rituals that encourage emotional expression to redefining success beyond money, this conversation challenges listeners to rethink growth, fulfillment, and what truly matters. David reflects on his career journey, from chasing wealth and boardroom success to prioritizing purpose, fatherhood, learning, and impact. He shares his guiding philosophy of “learn, change, grow” and why helping others, building community, and creating purpose-led initiatives leads to a richer, more meaningful life, especially in a rapidly evolving, AI-driven world.

Procrastination isn’t a flaw, it’s a human experience. Even elite athletes face it. In this powerful conversation, former Olympic sprinter Dwayne Chambers opens up about procrastination, identity loss, radical responsibility, and what it truly takes to rebuild after public failure. He shares how shortening the “procrastination window,” developing deep self-awareness, and taking full ownership of mistakes became the turning points in his life and career. Dwayne speaks candidly about the consequences of poor decisions, the freedom that comes from honesty, and the importance of apologizing, making amends, and moving forward without blame. He introduces his transformative “Four Fingers and One Thumb” framework, a practical way to stop pointing outward and start taking responsibility for your future. The conversation also explores mentorship, coaching young people, finding balance beyond high-performance culture, and why discovering your core interests is essential for long-term fulfillment. From fatherhood and personal growth to building resilience and purpose beyond sport, this episode is a masterclass in self-leadership and second chances.

In this inspiring conversation, Gill Tiney and Nicholas Adkins, founder of the Pink Socks Movement, explore the transformative power of authentic human connection in a digitally connected yet emotionally disconnected world. They unpack the difference between connectivity and true connection, reminding us that genuine relationships are built through presence, openness, and self-expression, not algorithms or screens. From everyday moments on trains and in grocery stores to global movements rooted in kindness, this episode invites listeners to reconnect with what it means to be human. Nicholas shares the origin story of the Pink Socks Movement, a simple act of gifting pink socks that sparked over 300,000 meaningful connections worldwide. Each pair serves as a reminder to see the good in others, spark conversations, and lead with love. Gill and Nicholas also dive into how fear, social conditioning, and polarization limit our ability to connect, and how choosing love, curiosity, and diversity can radically expand our world. The conversation also introduces Nicholas’s book, “The Pink Socks,” a heartfelt collection of real stories designed to be gifted and shared, with all proceeds supporting the Pink Socks Life nonprofit.  🎧 In this episode, you’ll discover: Why authentic self-expression creates deeper human connectionThe difference between digital connectivity and emotional connectionHow fear blocks relationships and how to move through it with loveThe philosophy and global impact of the Pink Socks MovementWhy engaging with people different from you enriches life and leadershipIf you’re interested in human connection, kindness, leadership, emotional intelligence, personal growth, or social impact, this episode will leave you inspired to look up, smile, and connect, one small moment at a time.

What begins as a chance LinkedIn connection unfolds into a powerful story of resilience, purpose, and community. In this episode, we explore how personal struggles became the inspiration for The Sun Will Come Up a free app designed to support mental well-being, mindfulness, and human connection. From life in Morocco to sunrise rituals, creative community events, and simple daily practices, this conversation reminds us that healing happens in small, shared moments—and that hope is always rising.

In this episode, Peter Hawkins shares insights from his book Zirons: The Theory of Nothing, offering a bold perspective on existence, consciousness, and the universe. He explores the idea that “nothing” is not absence but a balanced, energetic state—one that holds information, awareness, and continuity beyond physical life. The conversation touches on unanswered questions in science, the role of gravity, the nature of faith, and whether reality itself may be a persistent illusion. Thought-provoking and deeply reflective, this episode invites listeners to explore new ways of understanding life, death, and what lies beyond.

Discover how EFT Tapping can help calm your mind, reduce stress, and rewire your brain for emotional balance. In this episode, Gill Tiney speaks with EFT practitioner Jennifer Reef about the science and simplicity behind tapping, how acknowledging negative emotions creates new neural pathways, and why this gentle technique is a powerful tool for self-calming, confidence, and inner peace. The conversation ends with a guided tapping session you can try immediately—anytime, anywhere.

This conversation with Fuzia Talent founder Shraddha Varmma explores the evolution of Fuzia from a simple writing club into a global women’s community and talent platform. Shraddha discusses the societal barriers women continue to face, the importance of collaboration and shared stories, and how Fuzia supports entrepreneurs, coaches, and solopreneurs through expert-led assistance and community-driven growth. She also reveals Fuzia’s next chapter: the launch of Fuzia.ai, an AI-enabled ecosystem designed to streamline lead generation, content creation, and client management so women can focus on their core strengths. Throughout the discussion, Shraddha underscores the significance of resilience, alignment with core values, mentorship, and mindful routines in sustaining long-term entrepreneurial success. A conversation on purpose-driven leadership, human-first AI adoption, and building cultures where women can thrive.

Travel is so much more than ticking destinations off a map — it’s a human experience rooted in connection. In this episode, we unpack the deeper meaning of travel and explore why the real magic happens when we connect with people, cultures, and communities along the way. We dive into how meaningful interactions shape us, expand our worldview, and create lifelong memories. When curiosity meets compassion and culture meets conversation, travel becomes a powerful catalyst for personal growth and transformation. Join us as we explore: 🌍 Why true travel is about people, not places 💬 The role of human connection in transformative trips ❤️ How shared experiences build empathy and broaden perspective ✨ Stories that show how travel can change us from the inside out Whether you’re an avid traveler or dreaming of your next journey, this episode reminds us that the world becomes richer when we open our hearts to others.

In this episode, we sit down with sustainability expert Gary Brown to uncover why embracing sustainable practices is no longer optional—it's a strategic advantage for SMEs. From cutting operational costs to strengthening brand trust and aligning with global sustainability standards, Gary breaks down simple, practical steps that small and medium-sized businesses can apply today. We explore how SMEs can build sustainability habits that are realistic, meaningful, and profitable. Whether you're just beginning your sustainability journey or looking to refine your strategy, this conversation offers a clear roadmap to becoming a purpose-driven, future-ready organization. Tune in as we dive into: 🌱 Practical ways SMEs can start implementing sustainability 💡 Cost-saving strategies through eco-efficient practices 📈 How sustainability drives business growth and competitive edge 🌍 Aligning with global sustainability trends and the future of green business Join us to discover how sustainability isn’t just a responsibility — it’s a powerful opportunity to fuel growth, purpose, and impact.

The discussion highlights the importance of challenging the idea of “I can’t do it” by replacing it with “I can’t do it yet.” Host shares an anecdote about a child’s wisdom in this regard, and Stephanie Ward offers personal examples of pushing beyond perceived limitations, such as managing a larger team, traveling independently despite mobility issues, and even approaching a celebrity for a photo. Her experiences with airport special assistance illustrate the frustration of being labeled and then misunderstood or denied the very support that label is meant to provide. Stephanie Ward explains that pushing oneself to 101% of capacity each day, without causing burnout, builds resilience and increases overall capability, much like physical training. She emphasizes that one’s mindset often creates more disability than the physical condition itself, advocating for proactive development in areas like empathy, even for autistic individuals.

From navigating the highs and lows of a successful, but turbulent, business career to discovering the power of “The Lonely Seat,” Keith shares the lessons that failure and resilience have taught him. This conversation explores how personal accountability, authentic leadership, and paying it forward can transform professional and personal journeys. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or lifelong learner, Keith’s story is a compelling reminder that failure isn’t the end, it’s a stepping stone toward growth.

You’ll find here stories of resilience, loss, and healing, and how acceptance, gratitude, and support can help us navigate life’s hardest moments.

   The Universe does not discriminate or compartmentalise … and when you make a choice – when you do a doing, the energy that underpins that action will be reflected back at you through the consequence that is created by that action. That is Universal Law. It is how the Universe works through us – it can only say Yes!                                             Karen Baines is passionate about showing Entrepreneurs how they can achieve the empowerment and freedom they truly desire, by demystifying their own creational process, staying in absolute integrity with themselves and owning the creation of their own experience. Contact Karen Here -  https://www.facebook.com/karen.baines.355

In this episode of Being Human, Hidden Depths, Jill Tiney welcomes Jack Blenkinsop from B1G1 to explore how businesses can create meaningful impact through giving. They discuss B1G1’s unique model, the power of community, and the importance of embedding purpose into business operations, revealing inspiring stories and actionable insights. 🌍🤝