Podcast
not a straight line
Hosted by Peter Daly-Dickson · EN
Every Wednesday, join your host, actor, producer, and former tech entrepreneur Peter Daly-Dickson, for a deep dive into the zig zag journeys through the lives of entrepreneurs and artists. And entrepreneurial artists! Together, we want to shatter the myth that it's ever too late to be who you want to be, and give you hope, inspiration and self-belief that the journey from where you are to where you want to get to is possible. It's just not a straight line!
NEW: Thursday through Tuesday, tune in for daily bite-sized episodes where Peter shares his raw, unfiltered thoughts on intuitive action, personal growth, and the art of articulating who you are. Join him for this [initial 30-day] experiment in real-time self-discovery as he navigates his own non-straight line journey - exploring everything from creative practices and non-negotiable commitments to human design and the power of daily ritual.
About your host: After 30+ years working first as an actor and then a career in IT culminating as the CEO of a software company, I walked away from everything at the end of 2021 close to burnout and in a poor state of mental health. I ended up driving luxury cars around the UK, delivering them to dealerships and customers, and relished the space it gave me to think and simply BE. 2.5 years later I returned to the 22 year old Pete, sitting on the top deck of a bus wondering what his life would be like if he went to drama school, and reestablished myself in a creative career as an actor and producer. Oh, and as a podcast host too!
20episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Dragon || The Flow Seeker || The Love Alchemist with Rachel Elnaugh-LOVE
Feb 26, 202501:39:24Tap to summarizeRachel Elnaugh-LOVE is a former Dragon's Den investor and entrepreneur who founded Red Letter Days, pioneering the experience gift industry in the UK. Growing up above her father's electrical shop in Essex with four brothers, Rachel developed strong business instincts early on. After receiving multiple university rejections, she found her way into accountancy, which provided vital financial expertise for her future ventures.At age 24, Rachel launched Red Letter Days from a simple idea about gifting experiences, growing it into a multi-million pound market leader. However, in 2005, while caring for her newborn baby, she faced the devastating loss of her company through what she describes as a "corporate mugging" by fellow Dragons Peter Jones and Theo Paphitis.This profound setback led Rachel to transform her perspective on business and life. She began speaking at events, wrote a book about business failures, and discovered her talent for mentoring other entrepreneurs. Her journey deepened further through exploration of plant medicine, shamanic practices, and spiritual development.Today, Rachel combines business mentoring with metaphysical teachings, helping others achieve transformation through what she calls "flowing with the universe." She recently launched a 90-day transformation program and lives by the ocean, where she's developing an online series about effortless and joyful business creation. Her story exemplifies how perceived failures can lead to profound personal and professional evolution.Find out more about RachelBook linksBusiness Nightmares: Hitting Rock Bottom and Coming Out on Top - https://amzn.eu/d/ibjtRUqLiberation - https://source.tv/liberation/Prosperity - https://amzn.eu/d/1GAtqtDWebsitehttps://rachelelnaugh.com/Social MediaTelegram - https://t.me/rachelspeaksoutYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@rachelelnaughloveThanks for listening to 'not a straight line'!If this conversation inspired you, please leave me a Rating & Review! Here are some instructions on how: https://podcast.notastraightline.life/rate.And share the episode with a friend.Would you like to be a guest, or know someone who should be? Visit https://podcast.notastraightline.life/guest.And thanks to Matthew Blissfor his audio engineering excellenceYou can find out more about his services at https://www.mbpod.com/.
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The Four Fears Guy || The Author || The Mindset Expert with Mark Franklin
Feb 19, 202501:08:11Tap to summarizeMark Franklin is a former corporate executive turned personal development coach whose path has been shaped by creativity, crisis, and transformation.Growing up as an only child, he channeled his imagination into art and drumming, eventually performing in West End shows including The Lion King, before settling into what he thought would be a "proper career" in business.His 22-year corporate journey led him to become Managing Director of a sales division, where he discovered his gift for helping others grow. But the combined pressures of Brexit, pandemic-era business challenges, and the sudden loss of his best friend in 2021 triggered a mental health crisis that forced him to reevaluate everything.After seeking help through cognitive behavioral therapy and taking time to heal, Mark realized his true calling lay in helping others overcome what he calls the "four fears" - not being ready, not feeling good enough, not having enough time, and fear of failure. His family celebrated "getting their Mark back" when he finally left corporate life behind.Today, he measures success not in financial terms but in the freedom to help others write better stories for their families, combining his storytelling background with personal development to transform hesitations into strengths.Find out more about MarkBook linksHow to Embrace the Four Fears® of Business Ownership - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DX7PHN8PWebsitehttps://www.markfranklin.co.uk/Social MediaLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/markfranklinuk/Thanks for listening to 'not a straight line'!If this conversation inspired you, please leave me a Rating & Review! Here are some instructions on how: https://podcast.notastraightline.life/rate.And share the episode with a friend.Would you like to be a guest, or know someone who should be? Visit https://podcast.notastraightline.life/guest.And thanks to Matthew Blissfor his audio engineering excellenceYou can find out more about his services at https://www.mbpod.com/.
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The Joyful Performer || The Courage Coach || The Fearless Adventurer with Niki Sterner
Feb 12, 202501:17:17Tap to summarizeNiki Sterner is a performer and transformation coach whose journey from perfectionist athlete to authentic storyteller was shaped by unexpected health crises. Growing up in Montana as a competitive athlete and valedictorian, childhood trauma and societal expectations led her to suppress her true calling in performing arts, despite early signs of her passion—from dance team captaincy to leading roles in school plays.A series of health challenges became her wake-up call. After experiencing breast implant illness and a severe mold exposure that forced her family to abandon 90% of their possessions, Niki finally found her voice and the courage to stand up for herself. This physical crisis sparked a deeper healing journey, leading her to develop the "Confidence Shortcut"—a three-step process of clarity, mindset work, and courage-building that helped her reconnect with her authentic self.Today, Niki brings light and laughter to others through stand-up comedy and is premiering her first short film. Her approach combines daily mindset practices, strategic goal-setting, and her "three seconds to yes" philosophy to help others overcome their limiting beliefs. Her story demonstrates that our greatest setbacks often guide us back to our truest path—if we have the courage to embrace them.Find out more about NikiWebsitehttps://seedandspark.com/fund/sweet-bodySocial MediaFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=753258556Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nikisterner/Thanks for listening to 'not a straight line'!If this conversation inspired you, please leave me a Rating & Review! Here are some instructions on how: https://podcast.notastraightline.life/rate.And share the episode with a friend.Would you like to be a guest, or know someone who should be? Visit https://podcast.notastraightline.life/guest.And thanks to Matthew Blissfor his audio engineering excellenceYou can find out more about his services at https://www.mbpod.com/.
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The Maker || The Story Alchemist || The Vision Igniter with Nico Jones
Feb 5, 202501:35:16Tap to summarizeNico Jones is a story expert and entrepreneur whose journey weaves through music, filmmaking, and animation to his current role helping business leaders articulate their vision. His path began with a transformative moment watching a covers band perform, leading to a "guitarist seeks band" note that would set his life's direction.Through years of creative pursuits—from making Star Wars fan films to creating corporate animations—Nico developed a deep understanding of storytelling. A pivotal shift came with the rise of AI, when instead of seeing it as a threat, he recognized an opportunity to help others express their ideas more powerfully.Today, through his Core Stories framework, Nico guides entrepreneurs in uncovering and sharing their core stories. His methodology combines physical cards, community interaction, and AI technology, helping leaders transform their expertise and energy into compelling narratives that drive change.Recently, Nico experienced his own breakthrough by applying his methodology to himself, discovering how the same creative energy that moved him at that first live performance connects all aspects of his work—a revelation that continues to shape his mission of helping others find and express their authentic voice.Find out more about NicoWebsitehttps://storycaptain.co.uk/https://core-stories.scoreapp.com/Social MediaLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nico-ceballos-jones/Thanks for listening to 'not a straight line'!If this conversation inspired you, please leave me a Rating & Review! Here are some instructions on how: https://podcast.notastraightline.life/rate.And share the episode with a friend.Would you like to be a guest, or know someone who should be? Visit https://podcast.notastraightline.life/guest.And thanks to Matthew Blissfor his audio engineering excellenceYou can find out more about his services at https://www.mbpod.com/.
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The Actor || The Rule-Breaker || The Justice Seeker with Lily Shaw
Jan 29, 202501:26:51Tap to summarizeLily Shaw is an Indian-born actress and content creator whose journey embodies resilience and creative expression against formidable odds. After losing her father in a tragic accident at age fourteen, she emigrated to America with her family, seeking escape from the cultural limitations placed on fatherless daughters in Indian society.In America, Lily faced unexpected challenges when her own relatives subjected her and her family to racism and abuse. Despite excelling academically and discovering her talent for performance early—spontaneously dancing to street drums at age three—she found herself navigating complex cultural dynamics both at home and in Hollywood.Through fifteen years of family abuse and professional setbacks, Lily turned to spiritual healing to reclaim her power. She developed a unique approach to "reparenting" herself and healing her inner child, choosing to channel her experiences into advocacy rather than bitterness.Today, Lily creates content helping others navigate abusive relationships while pursuing her acting career. Despite being "on the wrong side of 30s" by industry standards, she maintains her ambition, drawing a cricket analogy that she hasn't even had her chance to bat yet. Her story demonstrates how personal trauma can be transformed into purpose through perseverance and authentic self-expression.Find out more about LilyWebsitehttps://mailchi.mp/iamlilyshaw/lilys-musingsSocial MediaInstagram - @iamlilyshaw << DM Lily if you'd like to know more about her group coaching courseThanks for listening to 'not a straight line'!If this conversation inspired you, please leave me a Rating & Review! Here are some instructions on how: https://podcast.notastraightline.life/rate.And share the episode with a friend.Would you like to be a guest, or know someone who should be? Visit https://podcast.notastraightline.life/guest.And thanks to Matthew Blissfor his audio engineering excellenceYou can find out more about his services at https://www.mbpod.com/.
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The Prison Philosopher || The Soul Guide || The Human Connector with Reene Ramirez
Jan 22, 202501:12:10Tap to summarizeReene Ramirez's story is one of profound transformation and resilience against systemic challenges. Growing up in Anaheim with immigrant parents, his childhood was marked by an environment where aggression was normalized, with family members encouraging young cousins to fight each other. Struggling with dyslexia and facing bullying at school, Reene created an aggressive persona to survive, despite it conflicting with his true nature.At fifteen, a single day's events led to a 16 year prison sentence, tried as an adult for involvement in a shooting. Within the prison system, Reene navigated complex social dynamics while witnessing profound violence, including losing a mentor who had taken him under his wing. During this time, he began his journey of self-discovery, finding wisdom in philosophical texts and developing a deep understanding of human nature.Today, Reene demonstrates remarkable self-awareness, having built a life grounded in continuous self-reflection and a desire to help others. He speaks with insight about managing different aspects of self, maintaining complete sobriety, and staying present. Despite facing ongoing challenges with employment and societal reintegration, he channels his experiences into helping others, particularly young people at risk of following similar paths. Through his work as a rideshare driver and aspirations to build community initiatives, Reene embodies the possibility of transformation while maintaining a clear view of both societal challenges and human potential.Thanks for listening to 'not a straight line'!If this conversation inspired you, please leave me a Rating & Review! Here are some instructions on how: https://podcast.notastraightline.life/rate.And share the episode with a friend.Would you like to be a guest, or know someone who should be? Visit https://podcast.notastraightline.life/guest.And thanks to Matthew Blissfor his audio engineering excellenceYou can find out more about his services at https://www.mbpod.com/.
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The Chaos Surfer || The Optimist || The Opportunity Alchemist with Cristina Castro
Jan 15, 202501:20:24Tap to summarizeCristina Castro, a resilient optimist and problem-solver, shares her transformative journey from childhood to becoming a successful entrepreneur. She discusses the pivotal moment of moving from Australia to Spain at age seven, which instilled in her a love for chaos, a thirst for new opportunities, and an unwavering confidence in her ability to thrive in the face of change. Cristina's story is one of embracing challenges, finding stability in uncertainty, and always seeking alternative perspectives.Throughout the conversation, Cristina delves into her corporate career, the importance of education, and her transition to entrepreneurship. She highlights the significance of having a strong support system, the power of mindset, and the role of play in business. Cristina's passion for revolutionizing education through AI and blockchain technology shines through as she envisions a future where knowledge is more accessible and the traditional institutions are transformed.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration to embrace change, cultivate a growth mindset, and find opportunities in chaos. Cristina's infectious optimism and her commitment to making a positive impact on the world through education and personal growth will leave you motivated to pursue your own non-straight line journeyFind out more about CristinaWebsitehttps://www.growyourbrandwithimpact.com/Social MediaLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristina-castro-reyes/Thanks for listening to 'not a straight line'!If this conversation inspired you, please leave me a Rating & Review! Here are some instructions on how: https://podcast.notastraightline.life/rate.And share the episode with a friend.Would you like to be a guest, or know someone who should be? Visit https://podcast.notastraightline.life/guest.And thanks to Matthew Blissfor his audio engineering excellenceYou can find out more about his services at https://www.mbpod.com/.
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The Guide || The Corporate Escapee || The Agency Expert with Chris Bantock
Jan 8, 202501:12:31Tap to summarizeChris Bantock, an experienced entrepreneur and advocate for education reform, shares his journey of career transitions and the evolving definition of success. He discusses his move from the corporate world to self-employment, the influence of family on career choices, and the significance of soft skills in education.Throughout the conversation, Chris explores the challenges and opportunities presented by technology in education and the need for reform to better prepare students for the modern workforce. He emphasizes the importance of taking risks, building confidence, and embracing change as essential components of personal and professional growth.Drawing from his non-linear career path, Chris highlights the importance of adaptability, learning from experiences, and the value of collaboration. He delves into his transition from corporate roles to entrepreneurship, the lessons learned in building and selling an agency, and his current focus on supporting agency owners through Agency Adventure and the newly launched Agency Aid initiative.Find out more about ChrisWebsitehttps://www.agency-adventure.com/Social MediaLinkedInThanks for listening to 'not a straight line'!If this conversation inspired you, please leave me a Rating & Review! Here are some instructions on how: https://podcast.notastraightline.life/rate.And share the episode with a friend.Would you like to be a guest, or know someone who should be? Visit https://podcast.notastraightline.life/guest.And thanks to Matthew Blissfor his audio engineering excellenceYou can find out more about his services at https://www.mbpod.com/.
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The Mother || The Agency Builder || The Community Catalyst with Laura West
Jan 1, 202501:35:01Tap to summarizeLaura West shares her personal experiences and insights on navigating life's zigzag journey, particularly through the lens of ADHD and neurodiversity. She discusses her career transition from PR to freelancing, the challenges of motherhood, and the societal pressures surrounding success.Throughout the conversation, Laura explores the impact of family dynamics, the importance of acceptance, and the evolving understanding of neurodiversity in relationships. She highlights the significance of self-awareness and the unique strengths that come with different neurological makeups.Laura also delves into the complexities of authenticity in virtual connections and the importance of quality conversations. She emphasizes the need for genuine interactions and understanding the outcomes of conversations in building meaningful networks and navigating the evolving PR landscape.Additionally, Laura discusses her journey through the challenges of running a business and her initiatives, AgencyWise and Agency Aid, aimed at connecting agency leaders and fostering charitable giving within the agency community. She underscores the importance of collaboration, communication, and community engagement in achieving these goals while reflecting on her personal motivations and the need for meaningful conversations in the industry.Find out more about LauraWebsitehttps://www.agency-wise.co.uk/http://www.agencyaid.org/Social MediaLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-west/Thanks for listening to 'not a straight line'!If this conversation inspired you, please leave me a Rating & Review! Here are some instructions on how: https://podcast.notastraightline.life/rate.And share the episode with a friend.Would you like to be a guest, or know someone who should be? Visit https://podcast.notastraightline.life/guest.And thanks to Matthew Blissfor his audio engineering excellenceYou can find out more about his services at https://www.mbpod.com/.
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The Salesman || The Healer || The Founder with Alastair Mackenzie
Dec 25, 202401:57:59Tap to summarizeAlastair Mackenzie, a master of the art of sales, shares his wealth of experience and insights on building genuine connections and crafting powerful conversations to attract ideal clients. He offers valuable advice on the nuances of effective discovery calls and the power of statistics in sales presentations.As Alastair delves into his personal journey of self-discovery and spirituality, he highlights the transformative power of healing through a holistic approach. He discusses the delicate balance between embodiment and detachment, underlining the crucial role of personal growth in achieving entrepreneurial success and abundance.This episode is essential for anyone seeking to elevate their sales skills, attract dream clients, and embark on a path of personal and professional growth. Alastair Mackenzie's wisdom makes this conversation an unforgettable experience, leaving you inspired and equipped to transform your life and business.Find out more about AlastairWebsitehttps://www.successwithsystems.co.ukHow to Conduct Thorough Due Diligence Before a Sales Discovery CallSocial MediaLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/successwithmack/Thanks for listening to 'not a straight line'!If this conversation inspired you, please leave me a Rating & Review! Here are some instructions on how: https://podcast.notastraightline.life/rate.And share the episode with a friend.Would you like to be a guest, or know someone who should be? Visit https://podcast.notastraightline.life/guest.And thanks to Matthew Blissfor his audio engineering excellenceYou can find out more about his services at https://www.mbpod.com/.
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