Claim OwnershipGobsmacked!
Subscribed: 5Played: 73
Subscribe
© Catherine Williamson 2023
Description
A Gobsmacked moment is one where the trajectory of our life changes perhaps forever. In a series of candid interviews, Catherine Williamson delves into those life flipping moments with her guests. She will glean the gold in the dark that builds our resilience and rigour for whatever life throws at us.
Visit Catherine's website here: https://gobsmacked.me
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
44 Episodes
Reverse
Kathryn Ellis was a woman who was on it—a yoga devotee, deeply into alternative health, and by all accounts, living her best life. But what happens when being the picture of wellness masks something serious?In this powerful and eye-opening episode, we hear how Kathryn’s healthy lifestyle ironically delayed a diagnosis of diabetes, allowing the condition to take hold silently. She was, quite literally, disappearing in plain sight.This conversation offers honest, informative insights into living with and spotting diabetes—a challenging, often life-shortening condition that can go unnoticed for too long.Tune in—it’s raw, real, and absolutely worth a listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
I first met Emma Mead years ago when she was at the top of her game in a high-powered corporate role—driven, sharp, and full of energy. Life, however, had different plans. When our paths crossed again, Emma was navigating an unimaginable reality: a terminal breast cancer diagnosis. As if that weren’t enough, her husband was also living with incurable brain cancer, forcing them both to figure out how to balance their battles while prioritising each other.Emma’s story is not just about illness—it’s about defiance, determination, and the relentless pursuit of life. She is not someone who simply accepts conventional wisdom when the clock is ticking. Instead, she seeks knowledge, fights for options, and refuses to waste a second on anything that doesn’t serve her mission to live fully.Our conversation in the studio was poignant, moving, and surprisingly energising—a testament to the power of the human spirit. I encourage you to listen, reflect, and take something from the way Emma chooses to live. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
When pain hits hard, you have two choices: let it break you or turn it into something bigger than yourself. Rachel Ollerenshaw chose the latter. After losing her beautiful daughter, Molly, to a rare cancer, she didn’t just grieve, she built a legacy. Molly Olly’s is more than a charity; it’s a movement bringing comfort, smiles, and a little bit of magic to seriously ill children. This isn’t just a story about loss, it’s about purpose, determination, and the power of a wish. Raw, real, and full of heart, this one’s a must-listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Like many guests on Gobsmacked!, the birth of her son, Tom, led Nicola Enoch down a completely new path. Initially thrown and disoriented by Tom’s Down syndrome diagnosis, Nicola soon realised how societal attitudes had shaped her perceptions. Determined to challenge these outdated views, she founded The Ups of Downs in 2006, a charity dedicated to supporting families and promoting inclusion. Her journey didn’t stop there; in 2017, she launched Positive About Down Syndrome, aiming to provide accurate information and support to expectant and new parents. Nicola’s unwavering commitment has been instrumental in changing perceptions and advocating for individuals with Down syndrome across the UK.What a blend of guts, righteous indignation, and tiger mother love can achieve to tackle perceptions and catalyse change.Tune in to hear Nicola’s unfiltered account of challenging the status quo, fighting for her son’s rights, and her relentless pursuit of a more inclusive society. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode of Gobsmacked! is a special one—it’s all about overcoming life’s curveballs and celebrating true grit and graft, and it just so happens to air on my 60th birthday! What better way to mark the occasion?Xander Van de Poll at just 18, had life changed forever when he broke his back in a freak accident. But instead of letting it define him, Xander has gone on to defy the odds in ways that will leave you truly gobsmacked From taking his medical exams from a hospital bed to becoming a practising doctor, and even training for the 2028 Paralympics in paracanoe, Xander is a living, breathing testament to the power of attitudeWe talk about everything: the tough days, the small wins, the big dreams, and what it means to find strength when life feels impossible. Whether you need a dose of inspiration or just want to hear an incredible story of resilience, this one’s not to be missed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Earlier this year, Matt Gallagher recorded his first-ever podcast for Gobsmacked. Reeling from his Motor Neurone Disease (MND) diagnosis in 2023, Matt opened his heart and family life to raise awareness and offer rapid support to others facing similar challenges. Eight months on, Matt returns to the studio to introduce his dear friend, Ollie Russell, who recently attempted a world record: 48 hours of burpee broad jumps.Ollie, a 26-year-old fitness coach and athlete, has a deeply moving backstory, shaped by the loss of his father to cancer. Inspired by Matt’s journey and their shared resilience, Ollie’s challenge was a testament to determination, raising vital funds for the Matt Gallagher Foundation, which has already contributed over £370,000 to the MND community.Tune in to Episode 39 of Gobsmacked to hear their incredible stories of heroism, stoicism, and heart. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Lianne Kirkman has openly described her life as an emotional rollercoaster, A pivotal moment occurred on a railway platform, where a miraculous event saved her life, igniting a deep well of love, generosity, and compassion that continues to guide her mission. With her formative years dogged by depression. Her personal struggles bless her with a profound compassion for marginalised individuals. Consistently drawn to those whom society often overlooks. Her dedication to women’s welfare is immense; inspired by a childhood aspiration to create a sanctuary for women, she has tirelessly pursued this vision throughout her life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
At seventeen, Ruth Hasson believed she’d found somebody to love—a man who showered her with attention, making her feel like a princess. However, his obsessive need to monopolise her time gradually isolated her from family and friends, culminating in a harrowing six-hour assault that left her barely alive.Trapped in a coercive, violent relationship, Ruth’s awakening came on her 21st birthday with the death of Freddie Mercury. This episode delves into Ruth’s journey from despair to liberation, highlighting the pervasive issue of gender-based violence. It’s a hard-hitting episode that underscores the importance of recognising and escaping abusive relationships.Now, as a brave and tenacious advocate, Ruth has made it her life’s mission to raise awareness and help others find their voices and courage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jade Carson shares her raw and candid story of living with bipolar disorder, from unwittingly self-medicating with alcohol and drugs to the pivotal moment when her university lecturer noticed her fervent behaviour and started the process to diagnosis. Jade’s honest insights and lessons, inspired by the wisdom of Winnie the Pooh, reveal what it takes to embrace mental health challenges and grow. A must-listen for those seeking understanding, strength, and hope. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 35 of Gobsmacked! brings us Bill Bates on a journey through music and memories, marking the 8th anniversary of his son Matthew’s passing. With his signature blend of humour and honesty, Bill shares stories of love and loss while playing some of his own songs, each one reflecting moments of joy, resilience, and remembrance. A heartfelt episode that honours Matthew’s memory through words and melodies, balancing the bittersweet beauty of life’s highs and lows. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Get ready for a Gobsmacked! episode that unpacks the “Ninender” mindset with Kate Berski! She’s taking on the myth of millennial milestones like hitting career goals, homeownership, or marriage by 30, and why “adulting” anxiety is at an all-time high. From feeling like she was “quarantined” by life’s pressures to thriving post-COVID with a new perspective, Kate’s here to redefine success beyond Insta-worthy timelines. If you’re stuck in a “doomscroll” or feeling FOMO from pandemic resets, this convo is for you. Tune in—#YOLO! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the blink of an eye, everything can change. On New Year’s Day 2022, Naomi Rees-Issitt lost her 18-year-old son Jamie to a sudden cardiac arrest. This searingly honest, highly emotional, and compelling account tells the story of how a mother’s love sparked a life-saving mission."Welcome to Heartbeat of Hope: A Mother's Love, A Son's Legacy—where one family's unimaginable loss becomes a movement to save lives. Join Naomi as she shares her journey through heart-stopping moments and heart-saving action. From tragedy to triumph, this is the fight to ensure no family faces the same devastating delays. This is Jamie’s story. This is about defibrillators, time—and saving lives Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Linda Clarke, a spirited Liverpudlian lass, is set to challenge, provoke, entertain, and inspire you. Drawing from her experiences supporting vulnerable children caught in county line drug operations and severe offences, and inspired by her nephew Jaxon’s journey with Kabuki Syndrome—a rare genetic condition—Linda now leads Lumiere, creating safe and inclusive spaces for children with special needs. Tune in to hear how her blend of wit, resilience, and passion drives her mission and will leave you thinking long after the conversation ends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to an extraordinary episode featuring Emma Smuts Muller, whose life journey is nothing short of jaw-dropping and awe-inspiring. Emma's story takes us through a whirlwind of experiences, from finding her soul mate and setting a wedding date, to facing the challenges of cancer, the heartbreak of bereavement, the struggles of lockdown, and the trials of infertility and surrogacy. Despite the turbulence, despair, and grief, this is a tale of unbreakable friendship and the profound impact one selfless person can have on another's life. Get ready for an emotional ride filled with hope and joy, but don't forget your tissues—you'll need them for the tears and smiles that follow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Brazilian-born entrepreneur and online TV channel host, Bia Rodrigues. Bia’s story is one of love, loss, and ultimate redemption.After meeting the love of her life in a restaurant in Spain, Bia followed her heart and left behind her home, career, and what felt like her entire identity to move to the leafy town of Leamington Spa. However, her new life wasn’t the fairy tale she had imagined. The challenges of children, postnatal depression, and overwhelming despair soon followed.But Bia’s story doesn’t end in darkness. Through a devastating family tragedy and what can only be described as divine intervention, she began her redemptive journey back to normality, gratitude, and career success. Her tale is compelling, heart-wrenching, and absolutely gobsmacking.Stay tuned as we uncover the extraordinary resilience and spirit of Bia Rodrigues in this unforgettable episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Less than three years ago, Victoria Harpham was caught in a cycle of crack cocaine and heroin addiction that had spanned decades. Homeless and estranged from her children, she was living a life defined by despair. An offer to enter a Christian all-female rehab seemed unappealing to her, and she expected to stay only a few days.But they say God works in mysterious ways, and Victoria's transformation has indeed been miraculous. Her journey from rock bottom to recovery is both tough and inspiring, demonstrating the power of faith and resilience.This podcast is hard-hitting but ultimately redemptive, and it's a must-listen for anyone interested in stories of hope and recovery. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we dive into the inspiring tale of David Barnes—a story of resilience, redemption, and the transformative power of cold water immersion.From the tough, wild mountains of West Cumbria to the depths of David's personal struggles, his journey is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the region and its people. Battling personal demons, facing the collapse of his marriage, and confronting the haunting spectre of childhood trauma, David found solace and strength in the icy embrace of cold water swimming.Through his perseverance and the healing power of nature, David emerged from the depths of despair, revitalised, and renewed. Join us as we delve deeper into David's story, drawing inspiration from his triumphs and tribulations. Whether you're seeking motivation, enlightenment, or simply a reminder of the resilience within us all, Gobsmacked! promises to uplift and inspire. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Julie White, a Coventry native who overcame chronic anxiety to become a formidable force in the world of business and advocacy. From navigating the 2008 recession to gracing the screens of BBC Question Time, Julie's story is all about grit determination with a dose of blag thrown in. Tune in as we explore her captivating tale of triumph against the odds and her ongoing mission to champion Small Medium Enterprises Construction and apprenticeships alongside influential figures like Rishi Sunak. Get ready to be gobsmacked by Julie's inspiring journey of resilience and triumph. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join us as we explore the remarkable journey of Matt Gallagher, a former rugby pro facing Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Rejecting despair, Matt channels his strength into the Matt Gallagher Foundation, raising funds and awareness for MND. Tune in to be inspired by his resilience and determination.https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-matt-gallagher-foundation-coventry-rugby-club Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This moving and challenging podcast features Sarah Warwick and Kelly Illes: mothers who formed a deep enduring bond when Sarah’s daughter Neive, aged 5, was diagnosed with embryonal/fusion negative parameningeal rhabdomyosarcoma, in August 2022. The Enchanted Tea Rooms, owned by Kelly, was the backdrop to their friendship and the many happy memories Neive had during her treatment, which included nine rounds of intensive chemotherapy & proton beam therapy. Alas, scans in September 2023 showed disease progression in the brain and spinal fluid. Neive went home on palliative care to be with her family. She passed away on 24th October 2023. Sarah and Kelly explore the impact of Neive’s passing and why they are absolutely focussed on fund raising in Neive’s memory for Neive’s Arc.https://www.alicesarc.org/arc/neive-warwick/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or broken heart syndrome was first diagnosed in Japan in the early 90’s but it wasn’t until 2004 that it was recognised in the West. This type of heart attack is very prevalent in post-menopausal women making up 9 out of 10 cases. Killing almost 3 times as many women each year than breast cancer. Julie Richards has been a fit and athletic woman all her life, so was completely blindsided when in 2023 she experienced what felt like a crushing weight on her chest. She was in fact having a Takotsubo heart attack. She explains in great deal the impact on her of dealing with a medical condition so poorly understood. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Gary ‘365 consecutive marathons’ McKee reflects on some of his gobsmacking moments of the last few challenges. Running the London Marathon on 10 pints and a curry. Sharing motivational anecdotes with Jürgen Klopp, lifting the cup in front of 70,000 crowd at the rugby World Cup. As well as how his heroic endeavours have been supported by fellow hero and ultra marathon runner, Kevin Sinfield. Buckle up; this chaps got some stories! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How anyone finds it in their heart to forgive the man who murdered their mum is beyond most's comprehension. Add to that her murderer is one of the most notorious serial killers - Peter Sutcliffe. This is not an easy listen but from it comes a message of compassion and forgiveness; gold in the darkest of places. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
15 year old Oliver Hodgson ‘dropped’ out of school. Bullied for years for being different he couldn’t stand another day of a system that he felt failed him. Setting up his business with his last £25 pounds and two weeks into Covid Lockdown, he had big dreams and bold goals. Now 19, he presides over a super successful PR Agency with a team of 7 making its first million and very much living his best life. We learn how being bullied then standing up for himself before dropping out has shaped and emboldened him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
At just 23 years of age, heavyweight boxer Lewis Williams claimed gold at the Commonwealth Games in 2022. We catch up with Lewis as he seeks to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Those of us that watched him triumph were indeed Gobsmacked! by his achievement. But what preparation and mindset do you need to cultivate to be a Gold medal winner? As a member of Gen Z, Lewis entertains us with his highs and lows and his heroes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
When Hazel Carter found true love in her 40’s, she was not to know that her time with her soulmate Alan would be cruelly cut short by his devastating diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease. When they said till death do us part in sickness and in health, she would have to face up to her vows. This is a sensitive and compelling account of the many aspects of love and turning pain to purpose. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
At the age of 16, Grant Harris started seeing visions of his 18 month old nephew who had previously passed. He talks about how the gift of mediumship has shaped forged his life. As well as the incredible responsibility of the power of words when faced with vulnerability and grief. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Richard Askwith was in a dark, dodgy place in his early twenties. He discusses how deciding to go for a run one day was the beginning of his redemptive experience as well as the impetus to write his first award winning book ‘Feet in the Clouds’. His story of pitching himself against the mountains and fells of Cumbria has since led to other successful books. Yet running has remained a constant throughout his life and this humble fascinating chap is certainly a worthy and enriching listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Burying your child is an experience no one wants to have. For Louise Bates, her son Matthew’s aggressive kidney cancer diagnosis and the grief that followed his death has given her a very personal set of insights. Though it deals with a tragic subject, this is not a sad podcast. There is love wisdom and hope in abundance. And how a woman found her voice following the example of her son. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In 2007, Ian Verge decided to find his birth mother. After putting it off for 20 years, this time he’s ready. A chance sighting of a painting of a woman, a bird and a baby led him to her. What unfolds is a story of what's possible when forgiveness is forthcoming and love transcends all. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
27 year old Saoirse recognises she is lucky to be alive, having flipped her car, hit a tree and been cut out of her vehicle. That was a wake up moment - she got in that car 4 and half times over the legal limit. This is not a podcast for the faint hearted but it is a message of hope. It’s searingly honest, deals with the trauma of the tragic death of her brother. And her day to day strategies and determination to stay sober. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Chief Superintendent Kim Madill is a lifer. As a 10 year old, she knew she wanted to join the police. Nearly 3 decades later, she’s seen the worst and the best of humanity. Determined to use her abundant talents and drive, she explores how a horrendous crime 20 years ago directed her passion towards her mission for a safer fairer world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Gary 'Machine' McKee & Gary 'Mankini' Graham. Two of West Cumbria's finest fellows. Gary '365 consecutive marathons' updates us on the last year and the after feels of raising £1.3 million for Cancer Charities. Gary Graham - Ex Met Officer - gives us a most extraordinary Gobsmacked moment helping to avert a massive terrorist attack, as well as illuminating us on his alter ego as a Mankini Wearing Poet Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hannah Simnett, founder and CEO of Cherished, talks about how the pain of losing her Mum and being abandoned with an 8 month old baby catalysed her onto reach and connect with thousands of young people. Pain to purpose embodied. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sally Bee. Five heart attacks survivor. Died twice. Number One Best Selling Author. TV personality and life coach.Sally shares her totally unique set of insights after literally choosing life and juicing every bit of each day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
David Holmes talks about catapulting Captain Beaky to number one, Luck Psychometrics Leadership and that romantic interlude with Nina Simone. It's a rip-roaring ride Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Zelda Wilson gives us a snapshot of her continued battles with cancer since Episode 2 AND Catherine Williamson shares her Gobsmacked moment that changed her life forever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, Tessa Morton talks about how her son's Autistic diagnosis has shaped and crafted the last two decades. It’s practical, its heartfelt, it’s simply uplifting. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Imagine you have spent many decades as an eminent Psychotherapist helping others through their trauma. Then your beloved daughter takes her own life. This was Malcolm Stern's horrendous experience. He shares how in the depths of grief he was able to make sense of the absolute darkest of times and offer back some hope. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Clare Boswell reached that moment beyond which she could travel no further. At 21 stone, she was battling severe depression and zero self-worth - her Gobsmacked moment 4 years ago has seen her literally transform - mind, body and spirit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we are joined by Mandy Barnett. From being a consultant in palliative care to a property developer, from property developer to mother of a very sick daughter, to an author helping our understanding and supporting those living with Tourette’s. It’s Gobsmacking all the way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
‘Life is a marathon not a sprint.' Well for Gary ‘The Machine’ McKee, it's 365 consecutive marathons to be precise. Gary will literally gob-smack us with his heroics as a prolific fundraiser for Macmillan (£1 million to date) and West Cumbria Hospice at home. We traverse the territory of Kilimanjaro to the cycle track at Cleator Moor where Gary is slogging out a marathon every day and then heading off to work. Giving Jürgen Klopp motivational insights to, 10 pints of lager and curry and then running the London marathon. This man is INCREDIBLE and if you don’t believe me, listen and count for yourself! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Imagine you have dodged the cancer bullet twice only to find its back for the third time, it’s very aggressive and there’s no treatment options left. You have a perfect Gap Year planned then we go into lockdown. Welcome, Zelda Wilson, whose candid insights on how to die well will delight and inspire. Zelda has been outrunning Covid, astounding her oncologist and living her life with a zest and honesty that makes great and profound listening. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Paul Minter features in the first episode of the Gobsmacked! podcast. He shares how he has faced his own mortality numerous times, serving for nearly 18 years in the British Army, completing several frontline tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. He’s been blown up and had thousands of bullets whistling past his head and seen his comrades and friends die before his eyes, and tragically still committing suicide. Paul will be running 5000 miles around the coastline of the UK to raise money to help fellow comrades face their trauma and get the right support. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Comments
Top Podcasts
The Best New Comedy Podcast Right Now – June 2024The Best News Podcast Right Now – June 2024The Best New Business Podcast Right Now – June 2024The Best New Sports Podcast Right Now – June 2024The Best New True Crime Podcast Right Now – June 2024The Best New Joe Rogan Experience Podcast Right Now – June 20The Best New Dan Bongino Show Podcast Right Now – June 20The Best New Mark Levin Podcast – June 2024
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States