My final author engagement of 2022 was an interview with the ‘Look Mum, No Hands!’ podcast.

I didn’t intend to make Sarah Sharman and Daniel Confino, the podcast hosts, cry.

But that was what happened.

If you listen carefully, you might even hear me rummaging for a tissue and passing it over the mixing desk, with those immortal words, ‘It’s been up my sleeve, but it’s clean’.

Sarah and Daniel’s fascinating series spotlights conversations that challenge…

‘… the defeatist worldview that success can often be judged as pre-ordained or “who you know” or about money or good luck or simple fate. Maybe hard work, perseverance, taking risks, and making your own luck can be equally powerful.’

My initial pitch was that it might be interesting for their listeners to hear a bit about how I made the switch to a new creative career after 30 years in corporate PR.

We did talk about that, although not in a linear or superficial way.

Our conversation visited places that were deeply personal and profound.

As we were saying our goodbyes on that crisp December morning, I was reminded of something that one of my literary and political idols, Maya Angelou, said:

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

With this still in mind, I shouted ‘Yes!’ out loud when I saw how the ‘Look Mum, No Hands!’ Instagram story was promoting our recording:

‘All I can say is you must listen to this podcast then buy all her books and make sure you have tissues.’

Once you’ve grabbed those tissues,  you’re ready to:

1. Find the podcast
2. Buy the books on Amazon
3. Or look for them on other platforms 

Finally, a big thank you Sarah and Daniel for making space for me on your fantastic show, and for being such kind and empathetic interviewers.