Tales to Inspire

What happens when you're told what you can't achieve, but refuse to let those expectations define your future? In this inspiring Deep Dive episode of Tales to Inspire, host Krish Patel speaks with Harvey Goodinson and his mum, Kim, about living with a rare disability, overcoming barriers and the importance of family, inclusion and opportunity. Born with spinal segmental dysgenesis, a rare condition affecting the development of his spine, Harvey has faced challenges throughout his life. Yet, with the support of his family, teachers and the incredible charity Speed of Sight, he has achieved things once thought impossible, including driving at Silverstone and gaining his driving licence. Together, Harvey and Kim explore the challenges of navigating education and healthcare, the importance of accessibility, and how kindness and the right support can transform lives. Their story is a powerful reminder that disability doesn't define someone's potential, and everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive. 🎙️ Discover more inspiring stories at Tales to Inspire. Special thanks to Bolton CVS for supporting this episode and Wellsprings for providing the recording space.

What is it really like growing up with a rare disability, and why are accessibility and inclusion still such significant challenges? In this Bite Size episode of Tales to Inspire, host Krish Patel speaks with Harvey Goodinson and his mum, Kim, about living with spinal segmental dysgenesis, a rare condition affecting the development of Harvey's spine. Harvey shares his experiences of growing up as a wheelchair user, navigating everyday barriers and maintaining his independence. Together, Harvey and Kim discuss the challenges of inaccessible buildings, public transport, blocked pavements and the frustration of living in a society that doesn't always consider disabled people's needs. Kim also shares her experiences as a parent advocating for her son, highlighting the importance of greater understanding, patience and practical changes that can make communities more inclusive. Key themes explored: Living with spinal segmental dysgenesis, a rare spinal condition Disability awareness and wheelchair accessibility The challenges of using public transport Independence, inclusion and everyday barriers The importance of family support and advocacy Creating more accessible and inclusive communities Harvey and Kim's story reminds us that accessibility is about more than ramps and lifts. It's about giving everyone the freedom, dignity and opportunity to participate fully in society.

From gambling addiction and rock bottom to 13 years in recovery, Mark Murray's story is one of resilience, second chances and finding purpose through adversity. In this powerful Deep Dive episode of Tales to Inspire, Krish Patel sits down with Mark Murray, co-founder of WHYSUP, to explore his journey through gambling addiction, mental health struggles, overwhelming debt and ultimately rebuilding his life. Growing up in Bolton, Mark dreamed of becoming a professional footballer, playing for Manchester City as a teenager. However, becoming a father at just 15 and reconnecting with his estranged dad introduced him to gambling, beginning a 13-year addiction that would impact his relationships, career and mental health. After experiencing severe financial difficulties, psychiatric hospital admissions and suicidal thoughts, Mark entered rehabilitation at 29, beginning his journey towards recovery. Now 13 years free from gambling, Mark has turned his lived experience into a force for good, co-founding WHYSUP, an organisation educating and supporting young people and adults around addiction, mental health, wellbeing and resilience.

What does addiction really look like, and how do we recognise the warning signs before it's too late? In this Bite Size episode of Tales to Inspire, Krish Patel speaks with Mark Murray, co-founder of WHYSUP, about his personal journey through gambling addiction, rehabilitation and 13 years of recovery. Mark challenges common misconceptions about addiction, exploring how gambling, social media, shopping, exercise and everyday habits can develop into harmful behaviours that impact our mental health, relationships and wellbeing. Together, they discuss the difference between habits and addiction, the importance of early intervention, breaking the stigma surrounding addiction and how lived experience can help educate young people and prevent future harm. "A habit you control. You start losing control, and addiction controls you." – Mark Murray An inspiring and honest conversation about gambling addiction, mental health, resilience and recovery, reminding us that you don't need to hit rock bottom before seeking support. Support and resources: WHYSUP: https://www.whysup.co.uk GamCare: https://www.gamcare.org.uk Gamblers Anonymous UK: https://www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7) Content warning: This episode discusses addiction, gambling-related harm and suicide. #TalesToInspire #MarkMurray #GamblingAddiction #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealth #WHYSUP

What happens when you spend your whole life feeling different, only to discover why in your twenties? In this deeply honest episode of the Tales to Inspire Podcast, Emily Thornton shares her extraordinary journey of being diagnosed with autism at the age of 24 and how that diagnosis helped her make sense of years of struggling with OCD, mental health challenges and identity. Emily opens up about growing up alongside an autistic brother, masking throughout childhood, experiencing severe obsessive compulsive disorder, multiple mental health crises, suicide attempts, therapy, and ultimately finding hope through understanding herself and accepting support. Together, we explore: • Receiving a late autism diagnosis • Living with OCD and intrusive thoughts • Autism and mental health • The importance of therapy and asking for help • Why so many women are diagnosed with autism later in life • Creating more inclusive schools and communities • The power of authenticity, family and human connection Emily's story is one of remarkable resilience and serves as a reminder that understanding yourself can be the first step towards healing. ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions around suicide, self-harm and mental health. If this conversation resonates with you, please remember that support is available. You don't have to face things alone.

What does autism really mean, and why are so many adults only now receiving a diagnosis? In this Bite Size episode of the Tales to Inspire Podcast, Emily Thornton explains autism through both her professional experience and her own lived experience of being diagnosed at 24 years old. Emily discusses why autism should be understood as a difference rather than a deficit, how society's understanding of neurodiversity is evolving, and why increasing numbers of adults are recognising autistic traits in themselves later in life. Whether you're autistic, supporting someone who is, or simply want to learn more about neurodiversity, this episode offers valuable insight into creating a more understanding and inclusive world.

In this powerful Deep Dive episode of the Tales to Inspire Podcast, Krish Patel is joined by Farah Rehman for an honest and inspiring conversation about identity, racism, motherhood, grief and personal growth. Raised in Rochdale by a single mother, Farah reflects on growing up mixed race, navigating bullying and discrimination, and how her mother's belief in education encouraged her to think beyond her circumstances. Farah also speaks candidly about infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth and becoming a mother after loss, sharing the profound lessons she has learned through counselling, community support and embracing forgiveness. Alongside her personal experiences, Farah discusses volunteering in Uganda and Kenya, her work supporting others through social prescribing and the importance of meaningful connections in tackling loneliness and improving wellbeing. This is a heartfelt conversation about resilience, healing, role models, community and ultimately finding the freedom to become the person you were always meant to be. Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around racism, miscarriage, stillbirth, infertility, bereavement, domestic abuse, mental health and family trauma. Support organisations mentioned in the episode include Sands, Tommy's, The Miscarriage Association, Cruse Bereavement Support and Ellie's Gift.

In this deeply moving Bite Size episode of the Tales to Inspire Podcast, Farah Rehman shares her honest journey through infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth and motherhood. Farah reflects on the challenges of trying to conceive, the heartbreak of pregnancy loss, and the profound impact these experiences had on her relationships, identity and mental wellbeing. She speaks candidly about seeking counselling, finding comfort in the experiences of others, and learning to navigate grief in a way that allowed her to heal. Farah also highlights the incredible support she received from fellow bereaved parents and charities such as Ellie's Gift, reminding listeners that even in life's darkest moments, hope and joy can still be found. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, motherhood, loss, healing and the strength that can emerge from experiences we never expected to face. Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions around infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, grief and experiences of racism. If this conversation resonates with you, please consider following the Tales to Inspire Podcast and sharing this episode with someone who may benefit from hearing Farah's story.

Life rarely goes exactly to plan. Whether it's illness, disability, loss, financial pressure, relationship breakdowns, career changes or unexpected setbacks, every one of us will face moments that require us to adapt. In this special Tales to Inspire themed episode, we revisit powerful conversations with Steve Hill, Kate Appleby and Amit Ghose to explore what it means to navigate life's challenges with resilience, courage and hope. Steve Hill shares why adaptability and mindset are essential when facing uncertainty, both in education and in life. Kate Appleby reflects on her philosophy of thriving versus surviving, offering practical tools to help us keep moving forwards even on our most difficult days. Amit Ghose provides a deeply personal insight into growing up with a visible disability and the resilience required to navigate judgment, misunderstanding and societal expectations. Together, these stories explore: • Adapting to change and uncertainty • Building resilience through adversity • Thriving versus surviving • Mental wellbeing and personal growth • Disability awareness and inclusion • Identity, confidence and self-belief • Community, belonging and support • Finding strength through lived experience This episode is a powerful reminder that adaptation is not weakness. It is one of the greatest strengths we can develop as human beings. No matter what circumstances you are facing today, remember: you have adapted before, and you can adapt again. ⚠️ This episode contains discussions around illness, disability, mental wellbeing and personal adversity that some listeners may find emotional. Tales to Inspire shares authentic stories from people overcoming challenges, creating positive change and inspiring others through their lived experiences.

What happens when you lose everything you thought defined you? In this powerful episode of the Tales to Inspire Podcast, Rich Jones shares his remarkable journey through burnout, mental health challenges, homelessness, identity loss and ultimately finding hope. Having spent more than 20 years working in the charity and social impact sector, Rich dedicated his life to helping others. Yet behind the professional success, he was struggling with his own wellbeing. Following a period of breakdown, relationship challenges and homelessness, Rich reached a crossroads that would change the course of his life forever. In this honest conversation with host Krish Patel, Rich reflects on mental health, resilience, recovery, self-worth, compassion and the importance of discovering who you are beyond job titles, achievements and labels. Together they explore: • Mental health and burnout recovery • Homelessness and hidden struggles • Identity, purpose and self-worth • Compassion, empathy and human connection • Lived experience and systems change • Building a life rooted in hope and wellbeing Rich now describes himself as "living in the reality of hope" and offers a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult life becomes, recovery is possible. Whether you're navigating your own challenges, supporting someone else, or interested in stories of resilience and personal growth, this episode is filled with insight, honesty and inspiration. Connect with Rich: www.richjones.net Find out more about Tales to Inspire: www.talestoinspire.com