Onward Shift Podcast
Your Next Chapter Starts With A Conversation
Inspiring Journeys, One Story at a Time!
Want to be on our Podcast?
Proud To Have Reached
Launching 2nd July 2025
In this episode of Onward Shift, Vishal sits down with Eve Lameks breaks down the tendering process in simple, actionable steps perfect for tradespeople and subcontractors ready to move from small jobs to major projects. She shares real-world strategies for avoiding overwhelm, managing risk and building profitable businesses, especially when navigating payment delays, QS relationships and those massive tender packs that can scare off even seasoned professionals.
But this conversation goes deeper. Eve opens up about the mental health pressures of running a business in construction, the stress and stigma faced by quantity surveyors and the impact of long payment terms on cash flow and wellbeing. She also discusses what it’s like being a woman in a male-dominated industry and how she’s built respect and resilience on some of the UK’s toughest sites.
In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of Onward Shift, Vishal sits down with Gemma Cousins, life coach, former professional actress and founder of Core Coaching for a deeply honest conversation about self-confidence, limiting beliefs and what it really takes to rediscover your true self. With practical tools, lived empathy and a refreshing sense of humour, Gemma explains how to break free from self-sabotaging thoughts, why values are your personal compass and how a single word change can interrupt destructive patterns. Whether you’re struggling with imposter syndrome, stuck in the scroll cycle, or just tired of feeling “not good enough,” this episode is your reminder that you’re not alone and that self-trust is a skill you can build. Tune in for a raw, relatable and empowering chat that’s full of insight, warmth and real strategies for inner growth.
This week on Onward Shifts Podcast, Vishal welcomes Alan Bates, a seasoned construction director and devoted father, for one of the most vulnerable, courageous and eye-opening conversations to date. Alan’s story is not just about physical illness. It’s about identity, purpose and survival in the face of life-altering trauma. From a humble start working on building sites in his teens to leading multi-million-euro projects across Europe, Alan had carved out a successful, fast-paced life but everything changed when he developed Dural Arteriovenous Fistula Syndrome a rare spinal condition that struck without warning and left him with permanent disabilities, chronic pain and the need
Now writing a book titled If It Can Happen to Me, he’s on a mission to raise awareness, spark honest conversations and offer hope to anyone who’s ever felt like giving up.
In this powerful episode of The Onward Shift Podcast, host Vishal Narbheram sits down with therapist Will Hamilton to unpack the emotional, messy, and transformative journey from boyhood to manhood from teenage confusion to fatherhood fears, from midlife panic to relationship breakdowns, this is a no-fluff, real-deep dive into what men actually go through but rarely talk about.
If you’re in construction, business or just feeling overwhelmed by the quiet pressure to “have it all figured out,” this one’s for you. This is the episode every man needs to hear and every partner needs to understand because being a man isn’t about pretending you’re fine it’s about figuring out how to actually be okay.
Money struggles are real, especially in the construction industry. Delayed payments, unpredictable income, living paycheque to paycheque and feeling like you’re always one van breakdown away from chaos… sound familiar? In this straight-talking episode of The Onward Shift Podcast, host Vishal Narbheram is joined by Rachel Harte, co-founder of Money First Aid, to tackle one of the last great taboos: talking about money. With over 15 years in financial services, Rachel knows the pressure people face and she’s on a mission to make financial education accessible for everyone, especially those working in tough, shift-based industries like construction, retail and hospitality.
This is real talk. No fluff. No judgment. Just solid, actionable advice from people who get it. If you’ve ever felt embarrassed about money, stuck in financial stress or unsure where to even begin this episode is your wake-up call.
In this powerful episode, Vishal sits down with James from JT MOTIV, a passionate advocate for mental health and addiction recovery to take on the controversial topic of zero tolerance policies in workplaces. Should employees battling addiction be immediately dismissed or is there a better way to offer support and rehabilitation?
Through personal experiences and hard hitting insights, they explore the impact of workplace culture, the importance of second chances and how companies can shift from punishment to meaningful intervention but the conversation doesn’t stop there. Vishal and James also tackle the ever growing influence of social media and how it fuels addiction, manipulates our attention and even alters our mental health. They discuss the addictive nature of constant notifications, the pressure of online validation and the fine line between using social platforms for good versus falling into the trap of endless scrolling.
In this compelling episode on Onward Shifts Podcast, Vishal Narbheram the host sits down with Rob Porter, a crane engineer whose career has been shaped by hard work, perseverance and overcoming some of life’s toughest challenges.
Starting out as an apprentice in the plant industry, Rob quickly found himself working his way up, learning everything from diesel fitting to crane maintenance. However, his life took a dramatic turn when a near fatal accident on a power station crane left him with severe injuries and a long road to recovery. Rob shares his gripping experience of the accident, the physical and mental toll it took on him and the remarkable determination that pushed him to recover and rebuild his life.
His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of safety on the job.
In this powerful episode of Onward Shift, host Vishal Narbheram sits down with Debra Stanway, wife of Mark Stanway, to uncover the often overlooked impact of workplace accidents on families. Following Mark’s devastating fall, Debra found herself juggling not just his physical recovery but the emotional and psychological turmoil that followed.
Debra opens up about the shocking lack of medical care, the emotional weight of watching her husband lose his sense of identity and the ripple effect on their children. She shares the raw and personal struggles of supporting a loved one through PTSD, memory loss and chronic pain all while holding her family together.
In this gripping episode of Onward Shift, host Vishal Narbheram sits down with Mark Stanway, a freelance site manager and keynote speaker, to discuss the harrowing workplace accident that changed his life forever.
Mark shares the details of his near-fatal fall from a scaffold in 2015, the shocking aftermath and the devastating ripple effects it had on his mental health and family. From workplace negligence and cover-ups to his battle with pain, isolation and PTSD, Mark’s story is a stark reminder of the real-life consequences of poor safety practices. This powerful conversation sheds light on the importance of workplace safety, the emotional toll of life-altering injuries, and the silent struggles workers and their families face after an accident. Mark’s resilience and advocacy for better safety standards make this an unmissable episode.
In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome James Ford, founder of JT Motiv and an inspiring voice in the world of personal empowerment and addiction recovery. James draws from his own experiences and years of working with individuals battling addiction to share candid insights about the struggles people face with gambling, drugs and alcohol. His unique perspective on resilience and recovery offers practical guidance and hope for those seeking a way out of the darkness.
Get ready for an enlightening conversation filled with honesty, motivation and actionable wisdom. Whether you or someone you know has been touched by addiction or you’re looking for a story of perseverance to fuel your own journey, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.
Together, we dive into the vital changes the construction industry needs but with a hopeful and positive perspective. Lindsay brings an incredible depth of knowledge and passion for improving mental health in the workplace, particularly within the construction sector.
Throughout this engaging discussion, we touch on a wide range of topics, from tackling the unique mental health challenges faced by individuals in the industry, to creating a more supportive and open work environment.
This conversation is not only enlightening but also a reminder that change is possible and positive steps can be taken to improve the mental health landscape both at the workplace and on an individual level.
In this episode, I sit down with the remarkable Rob Muldoon for an unfiltered and deeply emotional conversation. Together, we dive into the heart of vulnerability, tackling the difficult topics that many shy away from. It’s raw, it’s real and it’s a safe space for truths to unfold a rare and vital reprieve in a world often clouded by judgment and pretence.
This is more than just a podcast episode it’s an invitation to reflect, connect and find solace in knowing you’re not alone.
Rob’s courage to share his journey reminds us that opening up is a strength, not a weakness and that even the toughest moments can be a catalyst for transformation.
Sometimes you come across a story so raw, so profoundly real, it shakes you to your core. That’s exactly what happened when I sat down with Steven Kirby. This is not your typical podcast it’s a deep dive into the struggles, triumphs and life altering moments of one man who has been through more than most of us can imagine.
There were moments of joy and laughter, followed by waves of sadness and disbelief. Just when I thought it couldn’t get any worse, another twist would leave me speechless. Yet, through it all, Steve’s resilience and sheer determination to keep moving forward left me in awe.
We also explore the unique challenges of the construction industry a field where long hours, physical exhaustion and high pressure environments take a toll on workers mental and emotional well-being.
Meet our guest today, Amanda, the inspiring founder of Colchester Children’s Counselling. In this episode, Amanda takes us through her incredible journey from a career in education and safeguarding to building a thriving private psychotherapy practice focused on children’s mental health.
Learn how she discovered her passion for helping young people through psychodynamic counselling, using creative therapies like play to support children dealing with trauma, neurodiversity, and emotional challenges.
Amanda shares insights on parenting, the power of validation, and how we can better support the mental health of the next generation. This episode is packed with heart, wisdom, and practical advice for anyone invested in the well being of young people.
I share my personal journey, from childhood mischief to a late diagnosis in their 20s. You’ll hear about the challenges of living with ADHD, like emotional highs and lows, hyperfocus, and impulsive decisions, but also the positives, including resilience, creativity, and the power of spontaneity.
If you’re living with ADHD or supporting someone who is, this podcast episode is packed with insights, practical advice, and encouragement to seek support and embrace your unique path.
Luke Morton, founder of The Juice Guy. In this episode, Luke shares his inspiring story from struggling with nutrition as a child to building a thriving business focused on health and wellness.
Find out about his passion for juicing, the daily habits that keep him motivated, and how his shots, packed with natural goodness, are helping people improve their health.
Personal growth and business tips, Luke gives advice on starting small, staying consistent, and transforming your lifestyle for the better.
Nicole, a specialist life coach with a fascinating journey from accounting to mentoring and coaching. In this episode, we talk about her personal story of overcoming self-esteem challenges, discovering her passion for helping young people, and transitioning into life coaching.
We also explore what life coaching really means, how it differs from mentoring and counselling, and why it’s so impactful. Nicole shares her insights on social media’s influence, the pressures young people face today, and the importance of self-reflection in finding success and fulfilment. This is a conversation packed with inspiration, practical advice, and thoughtful reflections on personal growth.
Jen Stanley, a specialist in nutrition and fitness with an inspiring personal journey. In today’s episode, we talk about the transformative power of fitness, nutrition, and rest.
Jen shares her story of how a life-changing moment led her to embrace CrossFit and a balanced lifestyle, focusing on fuelling her body for performance rather than just aesthetics.
We also talk about the importance of sleep and recovery, practical tips for sustainable changes in your daily routine, and how to listen to your body to achieve long-term health goals.
Stuart Blake, an experienced career coach with over 30 years in the recruitment industry. In this episode, we talk about Stuart’s fascinating journey, from working in financial services to becoming a managing director and, eventually, transitioning into a career coach.
We discuss the challenges of recruitment, the importance of building meaningful relationships with candidates, and the evolution of the industry over the years. Stuart shares invaluable insights on how to proactively approach your job search, overcome common hurdles, and why focusing on key achievements can help you stand out. Tune in to hear Stuart’s expert tips on career development and how to navigate today’s competitive job market.
Sue Porter, the inspiring founder of the Well-being Clinic in Colchester! In this episode, we talk about her incredible journey from working in the public healthcare sector for over a decade to starting her own clinic.
Find out about her passion for improving patient care, the challenges of transitioning to private healthcare, and the impact of public health decisions. Sue also opens up about her personal experiences as a business owner, including returning to work just 10 days after giving birth.
Let’s explore her journey, the importance of proactive healthcare, and what the future holds for the industry!
Kate McLaren, an inspiring professional boxer who shares her incredible journey from a small village in Essex to the boxing ring. In this conversation, Kate opens up about her early struggles with school due to undiagnosed ADHD and dyslexia, how she transitioned from hairdressing to modelling, and the challenges she faced with self-confidence and body image. She also talks candidly about overcoming a mental health crisis in 2020 and how boxing became her saving grace.
Kate talks about the importance of strong support systems, her experience being signed by legendary boxer Jeff Fenech, and her passion for helping disadvantaged young women through her charity, It’s Her Foundation. This episode is all about resilience, hard work, and finding purpose. Listen to this inspiring story!
I want to talk to you about how to move on from a bad day. We’ve all had those rough days that seem to stretch into the entire week, and it’s hard to snap out of that mindset. In this episode, I share my personal experience from last week when one bad Monday turned into a frustrating week.
I discuss the importance of acknowledging your emotions, shifting your mindset, and breaking tasks into smaller steps to regain control. I introduce the concept of the “bounce back rate” how quickly you can let go of negativity and get back on track.
The important distinction between criticism and constructive criticism. Let’s find out how negative criticism can be damaging and demotivating, especially when it lacks ownership and comes off as blaming.
I’ll share personal stories of receiving both bad and constructive feedback, and how each impacted my work and motivation. We’ll also explore the key traits of effective constructive criticism being purposeful, specific, supportive, and always open to follow up. I’ll give you some practical tips on how to ensure your feedback helps others grow and improve. Let’s learn how to offer feedback that uplifts, rather than breaks down!
Today I want to talk to you about momentum how it can be a powerful force in our lives, but also how it can lead to overwhelm if we lose balance. I’ll be sharing personal stories and tips on how to build positive momentum in your day to day life, starting with small, manageable steps.
You’ll find out how avoiding distractions like social media can help you stay focused and energised, and why it’s crucial to set goals, both short and long-term, to keep yourself motivated. I’ll also talk about the importance of recognising when momentum is taking you too far, and how to step back, recharge, and maintain balance. If you want to build new habits or need some motivation to keep going – this episode has something for everyone.
Career and entrepreneurship. I share my personal experiences, offering advice on how to balance a full-time job while pursuing your passion, the importance of having savings before starting a company, and the tough decisions involved in career moves. Let’s discuss everything from the challenges of entrepreneurship, the misconceptions about “get rich quick” schemes, to why you shouldn’t let that fire in your belly burn out.
If you’re passionate about an idea, don’t let fear stop you. I’ll give you a peek into what’s happening with Onward Shift, from coaching services to new products and events. Tune in for an honest, no nonsense conversation about risk, growth, and following your dreams!
What it truly means to be successful. Success is a word that gets thrown around a lot, and over time, our perception of it tends to evolve. In this episode, I’ll be sharing my personal journey and how my definition of success has shifted from material achievements, like owning a fast car or a big house, to something much more meaningful being present with loved ones and enjoying life’s simple moments.
Learn the pitfalls of comparing ourselves to others and why it’s so important to focus on our own path. Together, we’ll explore how success looks different for everyone and the importance of having fun along the way. So, join me as we discuss redefining success on your terms and finding fulfilment in the everyday.
My personal journey with Onward Shift and answer to some of the most frequently asked questions about my transition from electrician to entrepreneur. I talk about the challenges of self-belief, something I still struggle with, and offer insights into how I’ve navigated tough times. This episode is a candid look at the ups and downs of pursuing your dreams, finding fulfilment, and learning to believe in yourself along the way.
My entrepreneurial journey, from the early days of working as a shift engineer in London to founding and growing my own company, VDN Electrics. I’ll walk you through the highs and lows, from the excitement of building a business from scratch, like doing small installations and marketing on social media, to the challenges that come with it both mentally and financially.
I’ll talk about how I overcame significant setbacks, including personal struggles that affected my mental health and my company, and how seeking help from a coach and the Prince’s Trust helped me turn things around. Get valuable lessons on resilience, transparency, and the importance of setting clear goals. I hope my story offers some useful insights and inspiration to keep pushing forward.
I’m Vishal Narbheram, and today I’ll be answering to a question that’s been long overdue: What does it mean to be a man in 2024? In this episode, we’re unpacking the shifting ideas around masculinity, breaking down the stereotypes of being a provider, protector, and emotional rock.
Let’s explore how opening up, embracing vulnerability, and redefining what it means to be “manly” are reshaping lives today. This podcast is about finding your own path and learning how to express yourself!
Topic of overthinking a struggle I know all too well. I’ll be sharing personal stories about how overthinking has affected my mental and emotional health, along with some insights into the impact it can have on all of us.
I’ll walk you through some practical solutions I’ve found helpful in managing it, and offer tips on how you, too, can start overcoming the cycle of overthinking.
The concept of being “enough” and explore the importance of self-worth in a world that constantly pushes us to compare ourselves to others. Let’s talk how social media can trap us in unrealistic expectations, leaving us feeling like we’re always falling short. Through personal stories and insights, we’ll discuss the power of recognising our own efforts, embracing vulnerability, and setting healthy boundaries.
You’ll be reminded that you are more than enough just the way you are, and we’ll leave you with practical steps to celebrate your own journey.
Onward Shift Podcast
Listen to inspiring personal stories that celebrate achievements and explore the challenges of real life. Hosted by someone stepping out of their comfort zone for the very first time, this podcast is about more than just reaching goals it’s about building a supportive community. With guest experts in business, life, relationships, and more, we aim to empower listeners with tools, accountability, and relatable insights to help them thrive.
In case you’re looking for motivation, advice, or a place to connect, Onward Shift is here to uplift and inspire. Stay tuned for real stories, real people, and real growth!
