The Seeking Happiness Podcast

Ep 29 - Andy Bennett - Ocean Colour Scene

Andy Bennett – The Seeking Happiness Podcast
 
Facebook
 
Andy Bennett had his first break with his band The Elements (formerly known as Sargent) which included Tim Jacques, Lee Burn and Dave Casswell. The Elements regularly gigged throughout Birmingham and supported Ocean Colour Scene. The band released their first album, The Elements, on Acid Jazz Records music label and the album charted at #7 in the indie music charts.
Andy joined Ocean Colour Scene on 8 April 2004 (when he participated in the Royal Albert Hall concert). He has featured on the following albums:
One for the Road (2004) (Guitar, Background Vocals)
A Hyperactive Workout for the Flying Squad (2005) (Guitar)
Live Acoustic at the Jam House (2006) (Acoustic and Electric Guitar, Background Vocals)
Live at Birmingham Academy (2006)
On the Leyline (2007) (Acoustic and Electric Guitar)
Live at the Town Hall (2008)
Saturday (2010) (Composer)
21 (2010) (Guitar, Composer)
Bennett co-wrote the song "Old Pair of Jeans" which was on the Saturday album. According to The Digital Fix, "It just gets better with every song a winner. The jaunty ‘Old Pair Of Jeans’ is rollicking fun: "I wish you didn't get hung up so easily / When you're bound fall apart you always fall apart at the seams / So worn and so torn..like an old pair of jeans." The song also featured on the 21 album.
Bennett has toured with Ocean Colour Scene since 2004, but left in February 2015 to focus on his solo material.
You can see Andy Bennett live at The Regency Hotel in Solihull on Monday nights with his great musician partner Simon Foster – Benny & The Foz!
 
(1) BENNY & THE FOZ (Andy Bennett formerly of Ocean Colour Scene) | Facebook

Ep 28 - Unlocking Joy: The Power of Positive Thinking with Mark de Freitas.

Mark de Freitas Bio – Seeking Happiness
Welcome to "Seeking Happiness," a podcast that shines a light on wellbeing and positive change with your host, Mark de Freitas. As an accomplished Psychologist and Sports Scientist, Mark brings over 40 years of expertise in exploring the human mind. Through his successful hypnotherapy practice, he specializes in using hypnosis and self-hypnosis techniques to foster deep relaxation and profound personal transformation.
In each episode, Mark will guide you through fascinating insights into how the brain functions and how you can alter your thinking to enhance your life. This podcast is a beacon for anyone seeking answers on how to achieve a happier, more fulfilling life. It emphasizes the power of personal change and the potential within each of us to pursue a path of increased happiness and wellbeing.
Listening to "Seeking Happiness," you will gain not only knowledge but also practical tools to help kickstart or advance your journey. Mark is known for his open, honest communication, ensuring that every listener feels welcomed and supported.
Resources Provided by Mark:
Therapy Website: Mark de Freitas Hypnotherapy
Free Relaxation Recording: Enhance your sleep, reduce stress, and uplift your mood with a free relaxation recording. Download here. Remember to listen at bedtime with earphones, setting your device in flight mode for an uninterrupted experience.
LinkedIn Profile: Mark de Freitas
Facebook Page: Mark de Freitas Hypnotherapy
Join us on "Seeking Happiness" to unlock the doors to a better, happier you. Subscribe now and start your journey towards a brighter future filled with joy and wellbeing.

Ep 27 - The Journey to Happiness with Daniel Astarita.

In this inspiring episode of "The Happiness Podcast," we delve into the remarkable journey of Daniel Astarita, the Managing Director of 'Kesslers London,' a renowned manufacturing team known for collaborating with major brands like Sainsbury's, L'Oreal, Adidas, Dior, and Primark. Daniel takes us through his enlightening and thought-provoking life story, revealing the pivotal moments and decisions that catapulted him from the shop floor to the helm of a global operation.
Daniel's narrative is not just about professional success; it's a deeper exploration of personal growth, resilience, and the pursuit of happiness. He shares intimate details of his family life and the challenges and triumphs of undergoing IVF treatment, offering listeners a candid look at the struggles behind the scenes. This episode shines a light on the importance of support, perseverance, and finding joy in the journey, not just the destination.
Listeners will find Daniel's insights into business development and leadership invaluable, especially his philosophy on climbing "Happiness Mountain." His approach combines strategic thinking with a heartfelt understanding of the human experience, making him a compelling guide for anyone looking to find fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives.
As Daniel shares his story, he also instigates ideas behind his business focus, emphasizing the role of innovation, customer engagement, and brand collaboration in achieving success. His sharp observations and engaging storytelling make this episode a must-listen for those seeking inspiration on their path to happiness.
https://www.kesslers.com/

Ep 26 - The Soulful Journey of Linda Pagnini – Music, Acting, and Climbing Happiness Mountain

Join us in an inspiring episode as we explore the captivating journey of Linda Pagnini, a multifaceted musician and actress, whose collaborations with the fantastic guitarist Roger Crombie and the world-renowned composer George Fenton have set stages alight. Linda opens up about her incredible life story, which serves as a testament to the idea that change and the ascent of 'Happiness Mountain' are within everyone's grasp.
Linda’s musical ventures, especially with her band ‘Apeccs,’ offer a rich tapestry of sound that resonates across the internet, captivating listeners worldwide. Fans and new listeners alike can explore Apeccs’ soul-stirring melodies, including tracks like ‘Dark Night,’ at Apeccs.com. The site not only hosts their latest tunes but also provides a platform for fans to leave messages for Linda, which she cherishes and makes an effort to respond to, highlighting her genuine connection with her audience.
Beyond her musical talents, Linda Pagnini shares her soulful interpretation of humanity, emphasizing the intrinsic value and understanding each of our ambitions deserves. Her story is not just about musical and acting accomplishments but also about an honest and deeply intriguing individual’s journey through life’s ups and downs, and how she interprets those experiences through her art.
Listeners will be moved by Linda’s honest reflections and encouraged by her belief in the power of change and personal growth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of creativity, personal development, and the pursuit of happiness. Linda’s narrative reassures us that reaching for our dreams and climbing our own Happiness Mountain is not only possible but within reach.
Check out her music at Apeccs.com and on Spotify here : https://open.spotify.com/artist/3TQyqllhesBi3x9AhUYssS

Ep 25 - Interview with Andy Dickinson - Surviving the Unthinkable: A Father’s Journey from Cardiac Arrest to Recovery

In this podcast episode, we delve into the powerful story of Andrew, who experienced a life-changing event on January 1st, 2023. Awakening in a hospital, heavily medicated, Andrew was initially unaware of the severity of his condition. He had suffered a sudden cardiac arrest during a run with his daughter, Amber, in Harlow, Essex. This incident was a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of emergency medical training.
Amber, trained as a lifeguard and familiar with CPR, played a crucial role in her father's survival. Her quick actions and the assistance of a cardiology nurse who happened to be nearby were pivotal. The intense situation unfolded rapidly, with Amber performing CPR, summoning help, and guiding emergency services to their location. The arrival of first responders, police, and paramedics, including the use of a defibrillator, was crucial in stabilizing Andrew for transport to the hospital.
This story underscores the critical importance of first aid training, particularly CPR, in saving lives during cardiac emergencies. Andrew's survival, with a 90% mortality rate for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, was nothing short of miraculous. He emphasizes how Amber's CPR training, albeit years ago, proved invaluable during those critical moments.
Post-event, Andrew's journey through recovery highlights the complexities and challenges faced by cardiac arrest survivors. He speaks about the mental and physical rehabilitation process, both for himself and his family. The psychological impact on those who witness such traumatic events is profound, often overlooked, but equally important.
Andrew's path back to health included a structured rehabilitation program, starting with simple exercises and eventually resuming running. His experience brings to light the mental and physical toll of such an event, but also the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
This story is not just about survival; it's a testament to the power of emergency preparedness, the strength of family bonds, and the remarkable capacity of the human body and spirit to overcome adversity. Andrew's experience serves as a reminder of the value of first aid knowledge and the profound impact it can have in a moment of crisis.

Ep 24 -Finding Light with James Rocks aka Chris Burrow

In a heartening episode of our series, we sit down with James Rocks, known in the acting world as Chris Burrow, who opens up about his multifaceted journey from encountering the shadows of depression and mental health challenges to illuminating paths for others through his experiences. James is in the throes of launching an online support program aimed at aiding individuals grappling with depression and mental health issues, inspired by his own battles and triumphs over adversity.
James candidly discusses his past encounters with stressful and negative work environments, sharing insights into how these experiences, once burdensome, became pivotal in steering his life towards a more fulfilling direction. His story is not just one of overcoming, but of transformation—utilizing his personal struggles as a foundation to support and enlighten others facing similar battles.
His upcoming project, an online help program, reflects his commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those who struggle in silence. James believes in the power of change and the importance of seeking help, a message he delivers with a chirpy attitude that's nothing short of infectious. His positive outlook and vibrant spirit serve as a beacon of hope, encouraging listeners to visualize and enact the changes necessary to chase after happiness in their own lives.
Listeners will find James's approach to tackling mental health issues refreshing and relatable. Through his journey, he demonstrates that it's possible to turn life's challenges into opportunities for growth and to find happiness in the process. His interview is a compelling listen for anyone looking to make positive changes in their life or to understand the transformative power of facing one's fears with optimism and courage.
Chris/James is contactable on https://chrisburrow3.wixsite.com/jamesrocks or at IMDb James Rocks

Ep 23 - Rising Above: Dale Parker’s Journey from Stress to Stage - Teenage actor

In this deeply moving episode, we meet Dale Parker, a teenage actor whose story of recovery from a challenging school experience captures the essence of resilience and hope. Despite facing mental stress and adversity, Dale's upbeat attitude and proactive approach to life shine as a beacon for young individuals everywhere, demonstrating that it’s possible to turn one’s life around, even under the most daunting circumstances.
Dale opens up about his journey through mental stress, offering insights into the coping mechanisms and support systems that helped him navigate these challenges. His story is not just one of overcoming but of thriving, as he carves out a space for himself in the world of acting, using his experiences to enrich his performances and connect with audiences on a deeper level.
Listeners will find Dale's candidness about his struggles and his determination to rise above them both inspiring and relatable. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the potential for personal transformation. Dale's narrative encourages us to face our challenges head-on and to find our own paths to happiness and fulfillment, no matter the obstacles.
For anyone dealing with their own struggles or interested in the stories of those who’ve turned adversity into opportunity, Dale Parker's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of mental health awareness, and the unyielding pursuit of one’s passions.

Ep 22 - The Happiness Formula with Pete King: From Laughter to Insight - Actor, Writer, Director and Stand-Up Comedian

Join us in an enlightening conversation with Pete King, a versatile talent who navigates the realms of acting, writing, directing, and stand-up comedy with a unique blend of humor, honesty, and integrity. Armed with multiple qualifications in psychology and mental health, Pete offers an intimate glimpse into his life journey, sharing personal anecdotes and reflections on his quest for happiness and his battles against depression.
Pete's approach to tackling life's challenges is both refreshing and profound. He explores the positive angles that contribute to what he describes as the happiness formula, providing listeners with practical insights on how to pivot towards positivity and well-being. His ability to weave humor into discussions of serious topics like mental health not only makes his message more relatable but also serves as a powerful reminder of the therapeutic value of laughter.
In this episode, Pete's reflections are not just about overcoming adversity; they're about embracing life's ups and downs with grace and humor. His story is an inspiring testament to the power of perspective in the pursuit of happiness and the impact of humor in finding light in the darkest of times.
Listeners will undoubtedly find Pete's vision and insights both helpful and inspirational. Beyond his achievements in the entertainment industry, Pete King emerges as a beacon of hope for anyone facing adversity, proving that it's possible to lead a positive, fulfilling life despite the challenges. And, as noted, his good looks are just the icing on the cake!

Ep 21 - Tamsin Cope - Search for Sweeney

In this new episode, we have the pleasure to chat with Tamsin Cope.
Tamsin is a Californian who's moved to the UK via Mexico and Australia. She has worked in TV and Film production in L.A. and talks about her life journey which has led her to the other side of the camera and to overcome many life issues which affect us all. Tamsin shows us that Seeking Happiness is an universal goal and is achievable by everyone regardless of life chances and choices.
Here are some questions we will be asking:
· Tell us a little about your childhood and any problems that you had to overcome.
· Can you give us a few details about your journey leading up to you leaving your home and country.
· I understand that you’ve become an actor/actress– tell me a little more about this part of your life and ‘why’ acting?
· How do you think dealing with the Covid Crisis impacted you personally?
· What are your thoughts on the current crisis/invasion in Ukraine?
· Have you ever reached a point where you realized you wanted to make some lifestyle changes? Can you elaborate upon how you went about making those changes?
· Can you reflect upon your experience of dealing with difficult situations in recent times..
· What do you do to help you relax and relieve the stresses of life? Are you a member of any clubs or have any hobbies which help you when seeking happiness?
· What type of books do you read? Can you make some recommendations for our listeners?
· What are your TOP 3 TIPS to help anyone who might be feeling they need to make changes in their personal life or circumstances.
· What do you think are the biggest issues faced by any individuals who want to create a happier lifestyle for themselves and their families?

Ep 20 - Stephen Pennell - Author of ’Gangsters, Geezers & Mods’

In this new episode, we have the pleasure to chat with Stephen Pennell Author and Radio and host of King City Online (News & Reviews From The Birmingham Music Scene) https://www.kingcity.online/
Enjoy
Thank you for reading, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/seekinghappinesspodcast