The Human Mix

Underwater & Under Pressure with Commodore Eric Thompson

Welcome back to The Human Mix. In this episode, Nick & Lydia are talking to Commodore Eric Thompson who shares his experiences as a submariner, detailing a critical incident involving a steam leak on HMS Revenge, the dynamics of life underwater, nuclear weapon training and the protocols followed during emergencies. He reflects on the camaraderie among crew members, the challenges of operating during the Cold War, and the importance of communication and relationships in high-pressure environments. The group touches on the psychological challenges of being away from family for extended periods of time, having limited communication and being given the choice of whether you'd like to receive bad news whilst below the surface. Since retiring, Eric speaks on becoming an author, his first book On Her Majesty's Nuclear Service and his decision to get involved with political party, Liberal Democrats, in Scotland. The episode has themes of bravery, true human connection and pride throughout and it's not one you'll want to skip. --- If you'd like to get in contact or be involved with The Human Mix, please see below: Nick McKie [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasmckie/] Lydia J Hall [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydia-j-hall-91535b23/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/persyou_ltd?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==] ---- If you'd like to reach Eric, please find his website here [https://www.commodoreericthompson.co.uk/biography.html]. If you'd like to read On Her Majesty's Nuclear Service, click here [https://www.amazon.co.uk/Her-Majestys-Nuclear-Service/dp/1612005713]. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Winning Mentality: Sport, Resilience & Conservation with Crista Cullen

Welcome back to The Human Mix. In this episode, Nick & Lydia talk with Crista Cullen MBE, Rio 2016 Olympic Gold Medallist and founder of TOFAUTI, an African Wildlife & Communities Charity. She discusses her upbringing in Kenya, the importance of resilience and grit in sports, and how these qualities translate into her work in conservation. Crista emphasizes the need for community engagement, innovative solutions to human-wildlife conflict, and the significance of empowering local communities to take ownership of their challenges. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of sports, personal responsibility, and environmental stewardship. This episode shows how the athlete mindset can drive ambition and change in areas that are in need of support and / or change. --- If you'd like to get in contact or be involved with The Human Mix, please see below: Nick McKie [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasmckie/] Lydia J Hall [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydia-j-hall-91535b23/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/persyou_ltd?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==] ---- If you'd like to find out more about Crista Cullen, please find her website here. [https://www.cristacullen.co.uk/] For more information on TOFAUTI, click here [https://www.tofauti.org/]. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Building Your Mental Wealth Team with Mike Pagan

Welcome back to The Human Mix. In this episode, Nick and Lydia sit down with author, speaker, and “Mental Wealth” advocate Mike Pagan for a deep, uplifting, and often eye-opening conversation about isolation, support networks, and the power of saying no. Mike brings his signature blend of honesty, humour, and straight-talking clarity to explore why so many of us—especially business owners, parents, and high-achievers—end up feeling emotionally drained and alone, even when surrounded by people. He unpacks the hidden costs of hybrid working, the myths around self-sufficiency, and why we’re terrible at asking for help until we’re on the brink. Together, they dig into building your “Mental Wealth Team,” the crucial difference between solitude and isolation, and the uncomfortable truth that personal responsibility is both the problem and the solution. From the yappy “dog” on Mike’s shoulder to the horror-movie highlight reel we all replay in our heads, this episode is filled with relatable moments and practical strategies for getting unstuck. Mike also shares powerful stories—from laughter yoga in Mumbai to a life-changing phone call in the middle of the night—illustrating how connection, community, and simple human outreach can make an extraordinary difference. The conversation flows between psychology, personal growth, family fears, public speaking confidence, and the small acts of self-care that keep us grounded. Whether you're a leader, a parent, a business owner, or someone quietly carrying too much, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to do life alone—and that reaching out can change someone’s world. --- If you'd like to get in contact or be involved with The Human Mix, please see below: Nick McKie [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasmckie/] Lydia J Hall [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydia-j-hall-91535b23/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thehumanmixpodcast/] ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

The Human Side of Branding and Business with Luke Evans & Matt Case

Welcome back to The Human Mix. In this episode, Nick and Lydia sit down with Matt Case (Design MC) and Luke Evans (YouNeek Productions) for an honest, energetic, and often hilarious conversation about the realities of running your own business—and the messy, human stories that come with it. From crippling self-doubt to brand evolution, from borrowing money to battling insomnia, the group unpack the emotional rollercoaster behind entrepreneurship. They explore why so many people feel pulled to do it their own way, how personal identity bleeds into the work you create, and why vulnerability is becoming a non-negotiable part of modern branding. Luke opens up about building his business from scratch, outgrowing old partnerships, and learning to sit with uncertainty. Matt reflects on the peaks and troughs of creative work, the personal sting of rejection, and the quiet relief of not having to pretend you know everything. Together, they challenge the old rules of professionalism—asking what it really means to show up authentically in industries that have long rewarded polish over honesty. They also delve into mentorship, money mindset, the loneliness of self-employment, and how collaboration can reignite passion when you’re on the brink of burnout. The conversation moves between laughter, raw truths, and genuine insight—revealing the shared human experiences behind branding, creativity, and running something that feels like “your baby.” Whether you’re a seasoned business owner, newly self-employed, or just curious about what life looks like behind the scenes, this episode is a reminder that the hardest days often shape the most meaningful work. --- If you'd like to get in contact or be involved with The Human Mix, please see below: Nick McKie [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasmckie/] Lydia J Hall [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydia-j-hall-91535b23/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thehumanmixpodcast/] ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

From the Operating Room to the Goalball Court with Gary Lambert

Welcome back to The Human Mix. In this episode, Nick & Lydia sit down with Gary Lambert to unpack the striking parallels between two high-pressure worlds: surgery and sports coaching. From the operating theatre to the Goalball court, they explore what it means to navigate emotional intensity, build trust, and lead teams when the stakes couldn’t be higher. Gary shares his unique experiences coaching visually impaired athletes, offering a rare look into the communication, preparation, and empathy required to create a safe and successful sporting environment. Together, they reflect on vulnerability, grief, personal growth, and the unseen emotional toll behind both professions. This conversation moves fluidly between humour, honesty, and heartfelt insight—showing that whether you're holding a scalpel or coaching a team, the fundamentals of humanity always remain the same. --- If you'd like to get in contact or be involved with The Human Mix, please see below: Nick McKie [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasmckie/] Lydia J Hall [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydia-j-hall-91535b23/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/thehumanmixpodcast/] ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.