Leaders in Disguise | Business Leaders' True Stories

Episoade

• Goodbye for Now - The Break, The Beginning, and What’s Next 12.08.2025 9min

  On 31st March 2024, I stepped down as CEO of the company I co-founded in 2009 - a multi-award-winning, 7-figure success that had grown internationally.Behind the scenes, I’d spent years balancing that success with a silent battle against depression. For too long, I feared sharing my truth would hold the business back.When I stepped away, I launched Leaders in Disguise with a clear purpose - to break the stigma of mental health and wellbeing in leadership. I knew my story wasn’t enough, and I had to invite others to share theirs too. They brought raw honesty to the mic, proving vulnerability is strength.Over a year later, the change is real. More leaders are speaking up. More conversations are happening. The stigma hasn’t disappeared, but it’s cracking.This episode closes a chapter of Leaders in Disguise, and opens the door to my next mission: Selfish Leadership. A positive reframe on the word “selfish,” it’s about leaders filling their own batteries, putting on their own oxygen masks first, and seeing self-prioritisation not as a weakness, but as a strategy for sustainable success.We’ll be back. Until then - keep talking. Keep being you. You matter.
• The Dark Side of 10x: The Finance Coach Who Walked Away from 'Success' 29.07.2025 51min

  What if chasing 10x growth and entrepreneurial “success” is actually destroying your health, your happiness, and your business?In this eye-opening episode of Leaders in Disguise, finance coach Serena Humphrey reveals the hidden costs of hustle culture. After surviving three financial traumas in her twenties and suffering a total physical and mental collapse, Serena exposes why the relentless pursuit of more nearly broke her - and why she chose to walk away.This isn’t just a story about burnout. It’s a blueprint for redefining success, building intentional wealth, and leading with purpose (not pressure).What You’ll Discover:Why the 10x mindset and hustle culture are a fast track to burnout and chronic illnessThe emotional and ethical toll of making an entire workforce redundant in your twentiesHow surviving financial trauma redefined Serena’s ideas of wealth, security, and leadershipThe difference between chasing an exit fantasy and building sustainable, intentional wealthWhy performative success (cars, status, revenue milestones) is a trap - and how Serena’s viral LinkedIn post challenged the narrativeGrounded, practical advice for leaders feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or stuckSubscribe for more powerful, unfiltered stories about the real cost of leadership and the courage it takes to redefine success.Have you ever felt trapped by the pressure to scale or “succeed”?Connect with Serena: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/serena-humphrey
• EXCLUSIVE: Living with OCD & The Hidden Struggles of Leading in Silence 08.07.2025 44min

  Join us for an exclusive episode, and incredibly brave and honest conversation with Nicky Shearer as she opens up about living with OCD and the challenges that come with leadership roles. This episode breaks down barriers and stigma around mental health in professional settings.Key Topics Covered•⁠ ⁠Living with OCD: Nicky's personal journey and daily realities•⁠ ⁠Pregnancy & OCD: How symptoms evolved during pregnancy•⁠ ⁠Relationship Disclosure: The courage to tell her partner about her condition•⁠ ⁠Postnatal Challenges: Navigating motherhood with OCD•⁠ ⁠Workplace Conversations: When and how to disclose mental health conditions to colleagues•⁠ ⁠Leadership Authenticity: Using vulnerability as a strengthKey Takeaways•⁠ ⁠Mental health doesn't disqualify you from leadership•⁠ ⁠Vulnerability can be a superpower in building trust•⁠ ⁠The importance of support systems in professional settingsResources Mentioned•⁠ ⁠Up There in the Sky by Nicky Shearer, available on amazon https://www.amazon.co.uk/Up-There-Sky-Nicola-Shearer/dp/1787883442Connect with Nicky•⁠ ⁠(https://uk.linkedin.com/in/nicky-shearer-b3a5481b4
• Stage 4 Cancer: How This Leader Finds Joy in the Darkest Moments 24.06.2025 57min

  In this deeply moving episode of Leaders in Disguise, Gary Parsons sits down with Julian Hall, founder of Calm People, who shares his extraordinary journey of leading with purpose while living with stage 4 bowel cancer. This isn't just a story about illness - it's about strength, authenticity, and finding joy in life's darkest moments.*Trigger Warnings* - Discussions of cancer diagnosis, family, friends, and similar.About Our Guest:Julian Hall - Founder of Calm People, resilience expert, and inspirational speaker who continues to lead and inspire others while navigating his cancer journey with remarkable grace and wisdom.Key Takeaways:How to maintain leadership authenticity during personal crisisPractical tools for emotional resilience (journaling, meditation, stress management)The power of community support and weekly connection ritualsRedefining success and legacy when facing mortalityWhy vulnerability is a leadership superpower, not weaknessFinding joy and laughter as healing toolsPowerful Quotes from This Episode:"You can have a joyful relationship with cancer.""Every moment is a choice point. It's never too late to change.""Healer, heal thyself - my daughter handed me a journal.""I gave a keynote the day after chemo - because I still had something to give.""Leadership is about authenticity, not always inspiration.""My legacy is the values and behaviour I've passed on."Resources Mentioned:Calm People (Julian's company)Journaling for wellbeingMeditation and stress management techniquesWeekly connection ritualsSupport Julian's 42-mile fundraising walk for cancer research: https://www.calmpeople.co.uk/12-friends-3-causes-50k-to-raise-and-12-months-to-do-it/Leaders in DisguiseLeaders in Disguise explores the human side of leadership, unveiling untold stories of triumph and resilience while breaking the stigma around mental health and wellbeing in leadership.---What did this conversation teach you about leadership or life? Drop a comment below - we read every one and would love to hear your thoughts on Julian's incredible journey.
• BONUS: The ‘Love My Face’ Debrief - and Keira’s Hidden Story 17.06.2025 10min

  In this powerful bonus episode of Leaders in Disguise, we return to a moment we couldn’t leave on the cutting room floor.Keira Smith, our previous guest, stayed on the sofa after we finished recording - and what unfolded became one of the rawest parts of our conversation.It was my first interview since Channel 4’s Love My Face aired on 17 April 2025, where I shared my story of facial difference for the first time publicly. Keira opened up too - revealing something she’s never spoken about on air. A hidden challenge she’s lived with since childhood.Together, we talk about the weight of being visible, the stories we hide, and what it really means to live unmasked.TW: This episode contains references to visible and invisible difference, trauma, and vulnerability.
• Rewiring Your Brain for Recovery with Keira Smith 10.06.2025 33min

  In this powerful new episode, Gary Parsons is joined by hypnotherapist Keira Smith, whose story takes us from fitness industry burnout and depression to becoming a leader in trauma recovery and brain-based healing.Keira opens up about living with hidden trauma, the dangerous pressure of "being strong", her own near breakdowns, and how a different approach to healing - without reliving the past - changed her life and her work.You’ll hear a raw, honest conversation about shame, leadership pressure, and the cost of constantly serving others without asking for help. Gary and Keira explore why it can be so hard for leaders to show vulnerability, and why creating safe spaces and permission to be imperfect matters more than ever.We'll also cover:The toxicity of "grind" culture in the fitness worldHow trauma shows up in the body - and why talking isn’t always enoughWhat “solution-focused hypnotherapy” really isRebuilding a life after hitting rock bottomInvisible differences and the power of human connectionTrigger Warning: This episode includes candid discussion of suicidal ideation, depression, and trauma. Please take care while listening.Guest: Keira Smith - Website: www.positivechangehypnotherapy.co.ukHost: Gary Parsons, Founder of Leaders in DisguiseIf this conversation moved you, please share it with someone who needs it. Every story we tell helps break the stigma around mental health and wellbeing in leadership.
• The One That Started It All (Remastered) 27.05.2025 41min

  To celebrate one year of Leaders in Disguise, we’re re-releasing the first-ever episode - now shorter and sharper, with a clearer focus on the powerful story that started it all.Gary Parsons opens up about life with Bell’s Palsy, the emotional toll of hiding behind a mask, and what it really means to lead with vulnerability. Since this episode first aired, Gary has been featured on Channel 4’s Love My Face, visited Parliament, and led wellbeing workshops across the UK.Trigger warning: Contains references to burnout, depression and emotional trauma.Guest: Gary ParsonsHost: Sarah GatfordVideo: Darren Dunn
• John's Story of Bullying, Burnout and Breaking the Silence 13.05.2025 44min

  TW: This episode includes discussions of workplace bullying, mental health crises, emotional distress, and suicidal thoughts, which some listeners may find upsetting. Please take care while listening.In this powerful episode, Gary sits down with John Sidebotham – a wellbeing champion and long-serving leader in the transport and engineering sectors – to talk openly about workplace bullying, burnout, and the long road to recovery. John shares his personal journey through toxic leadership, a mental health crisis, and finding his voice through storytelling, daily wellbeing calls, and speaking out. Together, they explore psychological safety, the hidden toll of silence, and how leaders can protect their own mental health while supporting others.What We Cover:•⁠ ⁠How toxic leadership led to emotional burnout and collapse•⁠ ⁠Why John took a stand against workplace bullying•⁠ ⁠His recovery through CBT, counselling, and community support•⁠ ⁠Creating daily wellbeing calls still running today•⁠ ⁠Speaking up, storytelling, and leading with vulnerability•⁠ ⁠Why leaders must look after themselves firstBonus Note:John continues to run weekly wellbeing sessions through Network Rail and their wider stakeholder networks - a vital initiative that’s supported thousands of colleagues across the industry.
• The Hidden Cost of Success - Richard Lee on Burnout, Exit, and Starting Again 29.04.2025 47min

  TW: This episode discusses burnout, anxiety, and the long-term mental health impact of high-growth entrepreneurship. Please listen with care.What happens when you scale faster than you ever imagined - but your mind and body can’t keep up?Today’s guest is Richard Lee - a founder who grew a tech company from 9 to 35 staff during Covid lockdowns, achieved explosive success, and quietly faced a breakdown behind the scenes.In this raw and powerful conversation, Richard opens up about:How chasing success without boundaries almost destroyed himThe hidden toll of building a fast-growth businessWhy stepping away from his company was the hardest, and bravest, decisionLife after the exit: navigating trauma, anxiety, and the long tail of burnoutRedefining success beyond the headlines and hyper-growthRichard shares with honesty what most leaders never say out loud , that success sometimes costs far more than it gives, and why recovery is a road, not a moment.If you’re building, leading, or scaling right now… you need to hear this conversation.🔗 Connect with Richard:Linkedin: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/producerrichard🔔 Join the Movement:Subscribe, share, and help us keep breaking the silence around mental health and leadership.Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn: @leadersindisguiseEmail: hello@leadersindisguise.com
• UNMASKED: What Happens When Stress Gets Out of Control? 22.04.2025 13min

  In this Unmasked bonus episode, we rewind to Season 1 - where Richard Abrahams talks about the moment he was admitted to a psychiatric unit.I ask Richard a big question:- What led you to being sectioned under the mental health act?What follows is a deeply personal story - where we find out about the events that led to getting diagnosed, but the innocent sounding conversions with his local GP and his signs of stress manifest themselves if ignored…. In Richard’s case it sounded too late in so many ways .We’ve all been there in stressful environments when:- Sales look like they’ve dried up- Cash flow gets tight- No matter what anyone says we’re convinced it’s all going to come crashing down…This took Richard too far and shows just how quickly stress turns into something much more serious.What is Unmasked?It’s our new short-form series between full episodes - offering unfiltered insights, reflections and honest answers to the questions we don’t talk about enough.
• Toxic Love, Grief and Depression - And Still He Showed Up to Lead 15.04.2025 45min

  TW: This episode contains open discussion of depression, burnout, and personal loss including the death of a parent, a partner's cancer journey, and the challenges of toxic relationships. Please listen with care.---What happens when life throws everything at you - all at once - and you’re still expected to lead?This week's guest, Julian Smith, shares the raw reality of being a leader while managing heartbreak, family illness, toxic relationships, and depression.From losing his father early in his career, to pushing through imposter syndrome, and navigating his wife’s recent cancer treatment - Julian has shown up through it all. But at what cost?In this deeply honest conversation, we talk about:The difference between authenticity and vulnerabilityWhy most leaders still don’t prioritise themselvesThe myth of "just being resilient"Why being selfish might actually be the most generous actHow to lead when your personal world is falling apartIf you've ever felt like you're cracking behind the mask, this episode is your reminder that you’re not alone - and you don’t have to keep going the hard way.More InfoFind Julian Smith online via LinkedIn, or searching for him via The Alternative Board.
• UNMASKED: What Self-Care Strategies Should Leaders Adopt? (A Real-Life Story) 09.04.2025 8min

  In this Unmasked bonus episode, we rewind to Season 1, Episode 1 - where I (Gary Parsons) was the one being interviewed.Sarah asks me a big question:“What self-care strategies did you adopt as a leader?”What follows is a deeply personal story - one I hadn’t shared publicly until then. I talk openly about a time I was struggling in silence, the pressure of leading through burnout, and the practical steps I took to start prioritising myself again.This isn’t about bubble baths or to-do lists. It’s about:- Recognising the warning signs that most leaders ignore- The raw truth behind my breakdown moment- What ‘real’ self-care looked like (and didn’t look like)- Learning to stop performing and start healingThis is the story behind the brand. The moments most leaders keep hidden.What is Unmasked?It’s our new short-form series between full episodes - offering unfiltered insights, reflections and honest answers to the questions we don’t talk about enough.
• Ex-Sanctus Co-Founder on Growth, Grief and Why Men Talking Matters 31.03.2025 49min

  * Trigger Warning * This episode contains open discussion of baby loss, grief, depression, and burnout. Please take care when listening and skip this one if it isn’t the right time for you.James Routledge helped build Sanctus into one of the UK’s most recognisable mental health brands, reaching over £2M in annual recurring revenue and working with hundreds of companies to bring mental health coaching into the workplace.But behind that success was a personal journey filled with burnout, identity shifts, and in 2024, the loss of his unborn son, Teddy.In this deeply personal episode, James opens up about the emotional toll of scaling a business, stepping away from the company he built, and navigating grief in the aftermath of devastating loss. We talk candidly about depression, burnout, and why it’s still so hard for men to talk about what’s really going on.James doesn’t just share what happened - he reflects on how he’s rebuilding, what he’s learnt, and why he’s now using his voice to break the stigma around men’s mental health without falling into buzzwords or bravado.Topics covered include:Building Sanctus and walking away ⁠⁠Identity loss after business success⁠⁠Coping with the grief of losing his son⁠⁠Why optimism can feel impossible when you’re grieving⁠⁠The pressure on men to stay strong⁠⁠Reclaiming purpose beyond your job titleIf you’re a founder, leader or simply someone trying to find your footing after a setback - this one’s for you.
• Stranded at Sea with 48 Hours to Live - Now He’s Changing Lives 17.03.2025 37min

  Not all leadership journeys begin in boardrooms. Some start in the most unthinkable circumstances.At just 18 months old, Steven Thai was stranded in the middle of the ocean with his family, fleeing Vietnam in search of safety. With no food, no water, and no way forward, time was running out - until a British cargo ship made a life saving decision. That moment of rescue didn’t just save his life. It shaped his entire mission.Today, Steven runs Ocean King, working alongside his brothers to build a business that goes beyond profit—one that creates opportunities and enriches lives. In this episode, we talk about:•⁠ ⁠The harrowing escape from Vietnam, and what it taught him about resilience.•⁠ ⁠Building a business with family, and how he’s shaped his leadership style.•⁠ ⁠Balancing hard work with purpose, and why he refuses to let his past define him.•⁠ ⁠The mission behind his success, why giving back is at the heart of everything he does.This is a story of survival, leadership, and what it means to turn gratitude into action.Find Steven by searching Steven Thai on social channels
• Tech Moves Fast - But Leadership Can Feel Lonely and Brutal 03.03.2025 50min

  Scaling a business is exciting - but what happens when success comes at a cost?James Mulvany, founder of Podcast.co, MatchMaker.fm, and Radio.co, has built multiple successful tech companies, employing a global team of 50. But behind the rapid growth, there’s a side of leadership that rarely gets talked about.In this episode of Leaders in Disguise, James and host Gary Parsons get real about:-The loneliness of leadership and how scaling a company changes relationships-The emotional toll of losing a major client deal and how he rebuilt confidence-Navigating personal loss while keeping a business afloat-The pressures of responsibility—when an entire team relies on you-Why many tech leaders struggle with isolation and burnout - and how to break the cycleThis episode is for entrepreneurs, founders, and leaders who feel like they’re carrying the weight of success alone. If you’ve ever questioned whether the pressure is worth it - this one’s for you.Listen now and join the conversation.Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a leader who needs to hear this.
• Fostered, Abused, and Overlooked - Now, He’s the One Closing the Deals. 17.02.2025 40min

  What does it take to go from being neglected, abused, and told you’d never succeed—to leading high-stakes multi-million-pound mergers & acquisitions?In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Leaders in Disguise, I sit down with Hutton Henry, founder of Beyond M&A, a firm that specialises in technology due diligence for investors.But Hutton’s journey to success wasn’t easy. After losing his parents at five, he was placed in foster care, where he experienced racism, neglect, and emotional abuse. He was told every day that he was stupid, incapable, and would never get a job. His confidence was shattered - until he discovered coding at the age of eight, a skill that would eventually change his life.Now, as a leader in the high-pressure world of mergers and acquisitions, he helps investors spot risk, unlock business value, and guide leaders through the emotional rollercoaster of selling their companies. But the resilience that got him here? That was forged in survival.In this episode, we discuss:•⁠ ⁠Growing up in foster care & fighting against the labels put on him•⁠ ⁠Finding self-worth in tech & business despite early struggles•⁠ ⁠The mental toll of selling a business and how leaders can protect themselves•⁠ ⁠Why so many CEOs lose themselves in their companies (and how to take their identity back)•⁠ ⁠His simple but powerful "TIE" method to navigate leadership stress•⁠ ⁠How he turned personal trauma into a strength in the boardroomThis episode is for founders, CEOs, investors, and anyone who has ever doubted themselves - but refuses to let their past define their future.
• Building a National Brand: Bear Co-Founder Craig Bunting’s Journey of Resilience 03.02.2025 50min

  What does it take to grow a national brand while navigating closures, financial setbacks, and personal growth? In this episode, we sit down with Craig Bunting, Co-Founder of Bear, to unpack the highs and lows of building a hospitality and lifestyle brand. Craig opens up about: • Growing a national brand beyond just coffee ☕ • Facing setbacks, including London site closures • Maintaining resilience and mental wellbeing • Managing work-life balance as a founder and dad • The emotional rollercoaster of funding and rejection 🎥 Watch now to learn how Craig turned challenges into stepping stones and kept Bear growing even during adversity. 🔔 Subscribe for more leadership insights, and drop a comment with your biggest takeaway! 📌 Connect with Bear: Website: BeMoreBear.com Social Media: @BeMoreBear #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Resilience #BrandBuilding #CoffeeCulture
• Wrapping Up 2024: Gratitude, Reflections + Christmas Poem 23.12.2024 6min

  As we head into the holidays and prepare for 2025, Gary Parsons reflects on an incredible first year of Leaders in Disguise. In this special Christmas bonus episode, Gary shares his gratitude for your support, reflects on the podcast's purpose of breaking the stigma around mental health and wellbeing in leadership, and gives a sneak peek at what’s coming in Season 2, launching on 3rd February 2025. Plus, Gary reads a heartfelt Christmas poem that captures the essence of prioritising ourselves as leaders while supporting those we lead. Whether you’re a long-time listener or just discovering the podcast, this holiday message is a reminder to pause, reflect, and prioritise your own wellbeing this season. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Gary’s reflections on launching Leaders in Disguise during Mental Health Awareness Week 2024 Gratitude for the overwhelming support from listeners and how this podcast has grown into a movement A Christmas poem written by Gary (with a little help from AI!) to inspire leaders during the holidays A reminder of the purpose of Leaders in Disguise – breaking the stigma of leadership and mental health Exciting updates on the upcoming Season 2, launching 3rd February 2025 Ways you can get involved, including sharing your favourite episodes, suggesting guests or topics, and supporting the podcast’s mission Calls to Action: Share your favourite Leaders in Disguise episode on social media to help spread the message. Suggest topics or leaders you’d like to see featured in Season 2 via hello@leadersindisguise.com Follow Leaders in Disguise on your favourite podcast platform and leave a review to help others discover the show. Stay tuned for details about the upcoming crowdfunder to support the podcast’s mission and growth. Links and Resources: Follow Gary on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/garyparsonsuk Stay up to date on Season 2 and the crowdfunder: leadersindisguise.com
• Dr Sona Kaur Inspires Leaders to Embrace Difference and Resilience 25.11.2024 53min

  In this powerful episode of Leaders in Disguise, host Gary Parsons welcomes Dr Sona Kaur, an inspiring leader in clinical psychology, successful business owner, and passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals. Dr Kaur shares her personal and professional journey, offering profound insights into overcoming cultural barriers, managing ADHD, and thriving as a leader. Key Discussion Points: Dr Kaur’s journey into clinical psychology and leadership at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. How ADHD shaped her perspective and leadership style, and why she calls it her “superpower.” The cultural and societal pressures she faced as a South Asian woman pursuing unconventional goals. The transformative work Dr Kaur is doing through her children’s home, creating a safe and therapeutic environment for vulnerable young people. Challenges of burnout as a business owner and clinician, and strategies for maintaining wellbeing. Practical steps leaders can take to create inclusive workplaces that empower neurodivergent individuals. Dr Kaur’s candid discussion sheds light on the importance of self-awareness, authentic leadership, and the value of embracing differences. Whether you’re a leader, neurodivergent individual, or someone supporting others, this episode is filled with inspiration and actionable advice. Connect with Dr Sona Kaur: LinkedIn: Dr Sona Kaur Instagram: @serenity_drkaur 💬 Have a story or experience to share? Interested in being a guest on Leaders in Disguise? Email us at hello@leadersindisguise.com. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to keep these conversations going. Stay well and keep leading authentically!
• Balancing Police Leadership and Personal Grief with Resilience - Jon Coogan’s Story 11.11.2024 1h 2min

  In this powerful episode of Leaders in Disguise, podcast host Gary Parsons welcomes Jon Coogan, a resilient leader whose journey within the police force has been marked by personal loss and immense professional responsibility. Jon’s story is one of strength, perseverance, and the ability to find purpose despite overwhelming challenges. Join us as Jon shares how his role in the police force shaped his approach to leadership and resilience. From managing high-stakes situations to supporting his team under intense pressure, Jon’s insights highlight the importance of maintaining mental health, even in the most demanding environments. He opens up about the personal tragedies that deeply impacted him, including the loss of his younger brother and stepfather, and the profound lessons he’s learned about grief, self-care, and mental wellbeing. This episode offers an honest look into how leaders can navigate both personal and professional adversities, bringing authenticity and compassion to their roles. It’s a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of leadership, resilience, and mental health—especially those who face similar struggles in high-pressure careers. Key Points:• ​Jon’s journey from the financial sector to a leadership role in the police force• ​How police work impacted Jon’s perspective on resilience and mental health• ​The personal losses Jon faced and how he managed his grief while leading his team• ​Jon’s advice for leaders on supporting their teams while prioritising their own wellbeing• ​The role of exercise and community in Jon’s healing and coping process• ​Insights into creating a psychologically safe workplace and encouraging open conversations around mental health Connect with Leaders in Disguise:• ​Listen to previous episodes and explore more stories on resilience and leadership.• ​Follow Leaders in Disguise on social media for more updates and highlights from this episode - @LeadersDisguise About Gary Parsons: Gary Parsons is a podcast host, leadership mental health advocate, and professional speaker dedicated to helping leaders prioritise their wellbeing. Through Leaders in Disguise, he brings real stories of resilience to the forefront, breaking the stigma around mental health and encouraging leaders to lead with vulnerability. Tune in to hear Jon Coogan’s incredible story of balancing his career in the police force with personal loss and resilience, and find inspiration for your own leadership journey.