Dare To Be Different With Craig White podcast

1:12:27

From the outside, Jeremy Bettle had it all — a high-profile career in elite sport, working with some of the world’s most successful athletes and organisations. But behind the scenes, he was running on empty. In this episode, Jeremy shares the quiet crisis that brought him to a breaking point, and the path he took to rebuild a life rooted in presence, truth, and vitality. We talk about: The cost of performing and pushing for too long Why success without meaning leads to burnout Letting go of identity and walking into the unknown The medicine in movement, men’s work, and Peru What it means to build a life from the inside out This is a conversation about what happens when men stop chasing and start feeling — and the freedom that follows. The Build-up to Burnout Jeremy’s rise through elite sport and performance coaching The moment he realised success wasn’t enough How professional ambition can become emotional suppression Breaking the Pattern The physical and emotional signals he could no longer ignore Walking away from what looked like a dream job The fear and freedom of not knowing what’s next Reconnection and Recovery Why movement, breathwork and brotherhood became vital Insights from ICONIC and the Peru men’s retreat Letting go of roles, pressure, and performance A New Way of Living Learning to listen to the body Rebuilding from purpose, not pressure What high performers need to hear — and unlearn…

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S2E7: Martin Bone - Why Men Must Learn To Move 1:14:50

23 days ago1:14:50

1:14:50

Movement is more than just physical. It’s emotional. Energetic. Transformational. In this episode, I’m joined by my good friend and co-facilitator of the ICONIC program, Martin Bone. We explore the deeper meaning of movement and dance, not as performance, but as a powerful doorway back into the body. For many men, especially those raised in the UK and Ireland, movement became linear - lifting weights, pushing harder, always doing. But in that, freedom, expression, and spontaneity got lost. We talk about how reclaiming movement helped us both heal old wounds, reconnect with our emotions, and become better leaders, fathers, partners, and men. This conversation is about breaking the stigma, getting over yourself, and remembering the body knows what to do... if you let it! Show Notes The Stigma Around Dance and Expression Why so many men freeze at the idea of dancing How childhood and culture taught us to suppress movement Craig and Martin’s early experiences with dance, shame and identity Dance as a Doorway Back to the Body Movement as medicine for emotion, stress, and stuckness Why the body holds wisdom that the mind can’t access The link between dance, emotional release, and inner freedom From Raves to Retreats The role of club culture and music in helping men reconnect with their bodies How early experiences with dance music created space for self-expression The transition from unconscious release to conscious embodiment Why Movement Belongs in Men’s Work How the ICONIC retreat in Peru uses movement to create real transformation Why most men’s breakthroughs come through the body, not the mind Creating safe spaces where men can move, feel, express without being judged How to Start Simple ways men can reconnect with movement and shake off years of stiffness The importance of containers, consistency, and community Letting go of the need to ‘know how’ and learning to trust the body again.…

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S2E6: Scott Ford - The Secret to Playing in the Zone 1:10:02

5 weeks ago1:10:02

1:10:02

Athletes talk about it like it’s magic. That moment when everything slows down, the game feels effortless, and they’re completely in the zone. But what if flow state wasn’t random? What if you could access it on demand? I sit down with Scott Ford—author, coach, and a pioneer in non-dual awareness in sport. He’s spent over 40 years teaching athletes how to enter and sustain flow states intentionally, rather than just hoping it happens. What is Flow State in Sport? Why athletes describe being in the zone as effortless, timeless, and automatic The difference between flow happening by accident vs. accessing it on demand The key shift in focus and awareness that changes everything How to Train for Flow Why “watching the ball” might actually be limiting your reactions The soft focus technique that allows you to see and react faster How to stop overthinking and let your body’s intelligence take over Beyond Competition: The Non-Dual Approach Why traditional competition is dualistic (me vs. you) and how that affects performance How non-dual awareness allows athletes to co-create the game with their opponents Why playing in flow isn’t just about winning—it’s about playing at your highest level Practical Applications for Coaches and Athletes How tennis, rugby, and even Navy SEALs have applied Scott’s work Simple drills to train focus, presence, and reaction time Why flow training is the next evolution in coaching and performance…

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S2E5: Mark Walsh - Why Men Need to Get Out of Their Heads 1:01:30

7 weeks ago1:01:30

1:01:30

Most men spend their lives in their heads: overthinking, overanalysing, and second-guessing. But true leadership, confidence, and resilience don’t start in the mind, they start in the body. In this episode, I sit down with Mark Walsh, one of the world’s leading embodiment coaches, to explore why so many men feel disconnected from their power and how reconnecting with the body can transform how they lead, train, and show up in the world. This isn’t just theory. Mark has worked with elite professionals, trauma survivors, corporate leaders, and athletes worldwide, helping them develop embodied leadership and resilience. His insights are practical, powerful, and cut straight to the point. Show Notes Why Men Need to Get Out of Their Heads Why most men live in their heads and the impact on confidence and leadership The difference between thinking about change and embodying it How weightlifting, martial arts, and movement help men reconnect with presence The Role of Physical Practices in Mental Resilience How gym training can be a sacred practice for focus and discipline Why men need challenge, struggle, and physical adversity to grow The connection between breath, posture, and emotional state Breaking Free from Overthinking and Insecurity The science of embodiment - how your body shapes your mindset Why men struggle with boundaries, people-pleasing, and saying no Practical techniques to build presence and confidence in daily life The Bigger Picture: Why Society is Failing Men How modern culture is weakening masculinity and what men can do about it The importance of mentorship, challenge, and a strong peer group Mark’s personal journey, from addiction and nihilism to leadership and resilience…

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S2E4: Rod Boothroyd - Why Men Struggle to Lead 1:05:53

9 weeks ago1:05:53

1:05:53

This episode isn’t just about leadership—it’s about self-awareness, emotional mastery, and the deeper work men need to do to lead with confidence and integrity. In this conversation, I sit down with Rod Boothroyd, who has spent over two decades working with men, helping them uncover what’s holding them back and step into their full leadership potential. We dive deep into the reasons why so many men struggle with leadership—whether in their careers, relationships, or personal lives. Rod shares his insights from psychotherapy, shadow work, and men’s development, unpacking why modern leadership feels so disconnected, hesitant, or misdirected—and what men can do to reclaim their inner power. Show Notes The Root of Leadership Struggles Why so many men feel lost when it comes to leadership The role of absent fathers and childhood wounds in shaping a man’s confidence How modern society has disconnected men from true leadership Reclaiming the King Energy The four archetypes—King, Warrior, Magician, Lover—and why men struggle to embody them The difference between real power and control How a man’s ability to process emotions directly impacts his leadership The Hidden Cost of Unprocessed Grief Why so many men struggle to feel joy and fulfillment How suppressed grief and loss block leadership potential The essential role of emotional intelligence in strong leadership Practical Steps to Step Into Leadership How to develop self-leadership and move from hesitation to confidence The power of mentorship—why every man needs a guide The impact of men’s groups, accountability, and long-term personal growth…

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S2E3: Matty Peet - Going Deeper 57:35

11 weeks ago57:35

57:35

Matty Peet is back. After a phenomenal few years leading Wigan Rugby League to unprecedented success, I sit down with him to reflect on the highs, the challenges, and what it really takes to lead at the highest level. From winning every available trophy to managing the relentless demands of elite coaching, Matty shares the lessons he’s learned—not just about rugby, but about leadership, resilience, and personal growth. He opens up about the pressures of expectation, the importance of connection, and why he believes every coach needs a coach. This episode isn’t just about sport. It’s about leadership, self-awareness, and the mindset required to sustain success. Show Notes Reflections on Leadership & Growth What’s changed for Matty over the past three years as Wigan’s head coach The doubts and criticism he faced when he first took the job—and how he silenced them The biggest lessons in resilience and leadership from elite sport. The Power of Connection Why connection is the foundation of Wigan’s success The impact of fostering a deep bond with players beyond just performance How Matty balances the demands of coaching with being present for his family. Coaching & Personal Growth How self-awareness has transformed Matty as a leader The importance of having mentors and coaches at every level of leadership Why vulnerability in leadership isn’t a weakness, it’s a superpower. Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter for Wigan How Wigan is preparing for the next season with the same squad The importance of evolution vs. revolution in sustaining success Matty’s focus on innovation, creativity, and maintaining a high-performance culture. Lessons for Leaders Everywhere Why every leader, whether in sport or business, needs a support system The importance of adaptability, emotional intelligence, and leading by example The role of personal development in becoming a better coach, father, and man.…

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S2E2: Cody Royle - Why Coaches Need Coaches 1:05:19

13 weeks ago1:05:19

1:05:19

In this episode, I sit down with Cody Royle, a coach to elite head coaches in professional sports and author of three impactful books, including the Amazon bestseller The Tough Stuff . Cody shares his journey from coaching Australia’s national Aussie Rules team to mentoring some of the top leaders in soccer, basketball, rugby, and beyond. Together, they explore the emotional toll of leadership, the power of self-awareness, and the profound impact of integrating personal growth into coaching. Show Notes Cody’s Journey: From playing Aussie Rules football to becoming a coach at 22 Transitioning from coaching Canada’s national team to writing The Tough Stuff The pivotal moments that led Cody to focus on supporting head coaches. The Challenges of Head Coaching The increasing complexity of managing multi-billion-dollar sports organisations Balancing personal growth with professional demands Common struggles faced by head coaches, including pressure, identity, and maintaining perspective. The Role of Personal Growth: Why self-awareness is at the core of effective coaching Cody’s approach to coaching head coaches: attunement, presence, and refining existing strengths The importance of integrating family life and personal practices into professional pursuits. Key Themes and Insights: The emotional toll of leadership and how to navigate it Bridging the gap between elite performance and personal well-being How Cody’s work is helping to shape a new generation of self-aware, emotionally intelligent coaches.…

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S2E1: Martin Offiah - Becoming Comfortable with the Uncomfortable 1:25:28

15 weeks ago1:25:28

1:25:28

I sit down with Martin Offiah, rugby league legend and cultural icon, to explore his journey from a young boy in Hackney to becoming one of the greatest try-scorers in the history of the sport. In this deeply personal conversation, Martin reflects on the mentors who shaped his career, the challenges of breaking barriers, and the lessons he’s learned about resilience and self-belief. From his rugby triumphs to his advocacy for sustainability and electric vehicles, Martin shares his powerful story of transformation and greatness. This is an episode for anyone who wants to learn how to turn adversity into fuel for success. Show Notes Martin’s Journey Growing up in Hackney and discovering rugby as an outlet for his energy and ambition The transition from rugby union to rugby league and becoming one of the sport’s most iconic players Reflections on the pivotal moments, including his legendary try at Wembley. Themes of Greatness The coaches and mentors who believed in him and taught him the value of star power How Martin learned to embrace his achievements without fear of judgment. Challenges and Resilience Overcoming racism and other challenges as a Black athlete in a predominantly white sport Lessons learned from tough times on and off the pitch. Life Beyond Rugby Martin’s passion for sustainability and his work in promoting electric vehicles Reflections on being immortalised in a statue outside Wembley and what it means to inspire the next generation. Insights and Advice How mentors, teammates, and family shaped his journey Lessons from rugby and life on staying authentic and resilient.…

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S1E17: The Best of 2024 48:21

19 weeks ago48:21

48:21

In the season finale of Dare to Be Different, I look back at the best moments from 2024 - a collection of powerful stories, raw truths, and deep transformations from the men who joined me this year. Matty Peet Matty shares his experience leading Wigan Warriors, redefining leadership, and balancing the demands of professional coaching with authenticity and self-awareness. Andrew Jenkins Andrew reflects on completing The Big Trek —1,200km across four nations—raising awareness for brain injury while sharing his powerful story of recovery, grit, and determination. Martin Bone Martin takes us through his personal journey of loss and healing, exploring how breathwork and movement helped him reconnect with purpose and clarity. Rhys Thomas Rhys shares his life-altering experience of a heart attack at 29, reflecting on how it transformed his outlook on health, life, and leadership. Stevie Ward Stevie talks openly about transitioning out of professional rugby due to injury, grappling with identity, and finding meaning beyond the sport. Antonio Vizintin Antonio shares the extraordinary story of surviving the 1972 Andes plane crash—facing unthinkable decisions and how that shaped his perspective on life, survival, and resilience. Sean Long Sean opens up about his struggles with mental health, addiction, and rebuilding his life, offering a raw, honest account of transformation. Piers Cross Piers explores how childhood trauma—particularly boarding school experiences—impacts leaders’ ability to connect, empathise, and lead authentically. Keith Witt Keith dives deep into relationships, emotional intelligence, and the importance of cultivating awareness to unlock our potential. Robert Masters Robert discusses the power of shadow work, emotional intimacy, and embracing all parts of ourselves to achieve true transformation. Liam Hennessy Liam shares wisdom on balance, physical health, and longevity, reminding us that sustainable leadership begins with our own well-being. Chris Brown Chris reflects on his journey with mental health and resilience, unpacking the tools that helped him face personal and professional challenges. Pat Divilly Pat talks about emotional vulnerability, self-connection, and his journey to help men create deeper, more meaningful lives. Traver Boehm Traver dives into the importance of brotherhood, the power of connection, and why men need other men to thrive in today’s world.…

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S1E16: Piers Cross - Are Our Leaders Traumatised? 1:00:01

21 weeks ago1:00:01

1:00:01

In this episode of Dare to Be Different , I sit down with Piers Cross - author, filmmaker, and leadership coach specialising in trauma and peak performance. Together, we explore a question that cuts to the heart of leadership today: Are our leaders carrying unresolved trauma, and how does it impact their ability to lead? Piers shares powerful insights into the emotional wounds many leaders carry, particularly those shaped by environments like boarding schools. This conversation dives deep into how unhealed trauma manifests in leadership, from disconnection to unhealthy power dynamics, and offers tools for cultivating authentic leadership through self-awareness and healing. This isn’t just a discussion about leaders in boardrooms, it’s about all of us stepping into leadership roles in our own lives, workplaces, and families. The Hidden Trauma of Leaders How childhood experiences, especially in boarding schools, create emotional patterns that carry into adulthood. Why unresolved trauma leads to disconnection, poor decision-making, and struggles with vulnerability. The Importance of Vulnerability Redefining vulnerability as strength in leadership and how it fosters deeper connection and trust. Piers explains how leaders can embrace vulnerability to improve relationships at work and home. Breaking the Cycle of Trauma Understanding the link between trauma, self-awareness, and authentic leadership. Piers shares practices to help leaders identify and heal emotional wounds that hinder their potential. The Role of Self-Reflection How leaders can pause, reflect, and move beyond their past to redefine their purpose and impact. Tools for developing emotional intelligence and creating a leadership style rooted in authenticity. Practical Advice for Evolving as a Leader Strategies for building emotional resilience and fostering meaningful connections. Why joining men’s circles, seeking therapy, or engaging in reflective practices can lead to profound growth. Subscribe to the Dare to Be Different podcast on your favorite platform for more powerful conversations. If this episode resonates with you, please leave a review to help us spread the message.…

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S1E15: Traver Boehm - Why Men Need Men 1:28:37

23 weeks ago1:28:37

1:28:37

In this episode, I sit down with Traver Boehm, author, speaker, and founder of the Man Uncivilized movement. Traver’s work has been a beacon for men seeking to reclaim their authentic selves in a world that often stifles true masculinity. Together, we explore why men need men—why male connection and community are essential not just for personal growth but for creating a life of purpose, power, and connection. From redefining vulnerability to tackling shame and isolation head-on, this episode is a raw, honest, and impactful conversation for anyone ready to step into their full potential. Show Notes The Importance of Male Connection Traver explains why men thrive in environments of brotherhood and shared purpose. The risks of isolation in modern life and how it impacts mental, emotional, and relational health. Redefining Vulnerability Vulnerability is reframed as strength, not weakness, and a gateway to deeper relationships and personal growth. Traver shares stories of men who found transformation by embracing openness and honesty with others. Understanding and Healing Shame A deep dive into the role shame plays in holding men back from their true power. Practical steps for identifying and overcoming shame through shared experiences and self-compassion. The Role of Pain in Transformation Why pain is often the catalyst for growth and how to use it as a tool for self-discovery. Traver shares his personal journey of loss and how it propelled him to create the Man Uncivilized movement. Men and Emotional Freedom Why men struggle with expressing emotions and the consequences of emotional repression. Tools and practices Traver uses to help men unlock emotional freedom and live more balanced lives. The Power of Brotherhood Real-life examples of how a strong male community can provide accountability, growth, and support. Traver discusses why men need other men to challenge them, hold space, and celebrate their wins. Practical Steps for Men Ready to Transform How to build meaningful connections with other men. Simple practices to integrate emotional awareness and authentic leadership into daily life. Subscribe to the Dare to Be Different podcast on your favorite platform for more transformative conversations. If this episode resonates with you, don’t forget to leave a review.…

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S1E14: Chris Brown - Why Men Must Start Telling the Truth 47:49

25 weeks ago47:49

47:49

In this episode the tables turn as guest Chris Brown steps into the interviewer’s seat to ask me the hard-hitting questions about life, purpose, and leadership. Kicking off with a powerful opener, Chris asks: “How do you stay strong and resilient in today’s world while staying true to yourself?” From there, we explore what it means to live authentically as men in a world full of expectations. I reveal the pivotal moments in my life, my personal battles, and how redefining my purpose brought me closer to a fulfilling, intentional life. Introduction: Chris Brown returns to the podcast, this time taking the reins as he interviews me about my journey and philosophy. Resilience and Staying True to Oneself: I respond to Chris’s opening question on resilience, sharing how he has managed to stay grounded amidst life’s pressures. Insights into my personal story of growth and the milestones that shaped my outlook on life and masculinity. Redefining Leadership and Purpose: The conversation moves into my take on authentic leadership and what it means to lead with purpose. We discuss the importance of moving away from external validation and focusing on what truly matters. Balancing Vulnerability and Strength: I open up about the balance between vulnerability and strength in personal and professional relationships. How my experiences helped him redefine my approach to connection and leadership. Creating Authentic Connections and Brotherhood: The role of male friendships and the significance of support networks in fostering personal growth and resilience. Tips on how to build authentic connections with other men who share similar values.…

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S1E13: Pat Divilly - Embracing Your Shadow 48:53

27 weeks ago48:53

48:53

I sit down with Pat Divilly, an author, speaker, and expert in breathwork and shadow work. Together, we dive deep into what it means to navigate change in today's world and the importance of embracing your shadow self. From personal struggles to professional transformations, Pat shares his journey of moving beyond limiting beliefs, stepping out of societal boxes, and learning to live with authenticity and freedom. We explore themes of fear, vulnerability, and what it takes for men to truly grow. Show Notes: Navigating Change: Pat shares his thoughts on the inevitability of change and how it's a constant part of life. The importance of balancing the desire for stability with the need for growth. Authenticity and Shadow Work: Pat explains the concept of shadow work: acknowledging the parts of ourselves we hide or suppress. How embracing your shadow can lead to more authentic living and deeper self-awareness. Personal Growth and Transformation: Pat reflects on his journey from personal trainer to breathwork facilitator and author. He shares how overcoming his own insecurities and internal struggles helped him embrace his true self. Tools for Change: The importance of having anchors in life, such as supportive people, environments, and healthy habits. How the hero’s journey metaphor can help frame personal transformation. Fear and Vulnerability: Pat discusses how fear is often a catalyst for change and why embracing it is key to growth. He shares the story of a client who faced his fear and transformed both in life and love. Final Thoughts: Pat encourages listeners to embrace discomfort and uncertainty as part of their personal evolution. Craig and Pat close the episode with a reflection on the importance of self-inquiry and support in navigating change. Follow and Subscribe: Make sure to follow the Dare to Be Different podcast for more thought-provoking conversations. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to support the show.…

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S1E12: Robert Masters - Becoming Intimate With All That We Are 1:03:07

29 weeks ago1:03:07

1:03:07

I interview Dr. Robert Masters, an acclaimed integral psychotherapist, psycho-spiritual guide, and author. Together, we explore the path to emotional embodiment and what it means to truly embrace all parts of ourselves, including the shadowy aspects we often avoid. Dr. Robert brings decades of experience to a conversation rich with insights about emotional intimacy, shadow work, the role of anger in masculinity, and the journey toward self-acceptance. From the warrior archetype to addiction, intimacy, and spirituality, this episode is a deep dive into becoming fully intimate with all that we are. Show Notes: Facing Early Life Conditioning and Personal Struggles: Dr. Masters reflects on his personal experiences with shame, anger, and the emotional wounds that shaped his early life. Craig and Robert discuss how facing these shadow aspects is key to understanding one’s true self and emotional landscape. The Power of Emotional Intimacy: Dr. Masters emphasizes the importance of becoming intimate with not just others but with all parts of ourselves—our joys, pains, and fears. He shares techniques for approaching our emotional worlds with openness and compassion, stressing the need for men to embrace vulnerability. The Warrior Archetype and Healthy Anger: The conversation explores the difference between healthy anger and destructive aggression. Dr. Masters delves into the warrior archetype and how connecting with this energy allows men to set healthy boundaries while remaining emotionally attuned. Addiction, Pornography, and Emotional Pain: Dr. Masters talks about addiction, particularly around pornography, and how it often stems from unresolved emotional wounds and a lack of true intimacy. Practical advice is offered for men seeking to break free from compulsive behaviors and move towards deeper emotional connection. Developing Emotional Literacy: Craig and Robert discuss the importance of men becoming more emotionally literate—learning to understand and express their emotions constructively. They explore how emotional literacy can improve relationships, especially intimate ones, and lead to more fulfilling lives. Spirituality and Embracing the Shadow: Dr. Masters shares the value of spirituality that embraces all aspects of the human experience, including our darker, shadowy parts. They discuss spiritual bypassing and the need for grounded, embodied spiritual practices that help us stay connected to our full selves. Final Thoughts and Upcoming Work: Dr. Masters previews his future projects, including work focused on elderhood and ongoing men’s emotional development. Craig and Robert wrap up with reflections on the ongoing journey of self-awareness, emotional intimacy, and shadow integration. Subscribe to the Dare to Be Different podcast on your preferred platform for more deep-dive conversations, and if you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review.…

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S1E11: Keith Witt - The Route to a Man's Heart 1:20:03

31 weeks ago1:20:03