In this episode of the Every L Podcast, we welcome Nik, an ex-veteran who candidly shares his journey of becoming a below-knee amputee. With humour, honesty, and an unflinching look at the realities of pain, disability, and resilience, Nik discusses the physical and emotional impacts of losing a limb, the surprising shifts in friendships, and the powerful sense of liberation that came with his decision.

From the initial injury and agony to finding camaraderie among fellow veterans and discovering a renewed perspective on life, this episode delves into what it truly means to turn a loss into a liberating transformation. Listeners are invited to hear an inspiring story about acceptance, adaptation, and finding purpose beyond adversity.

Here are the links referred to in this episode;

https://blesma.org/ https://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/ Op Courage – Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance - https://www.forcesemployment.org.uk/ SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity - https://www.forcesemployment.org.uk/ https://w... | Chat | Microsoft Teams https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/

Check out Matt's other podcast 2 Minute Quick Charge and give us a follow on @everylpodcast on IG

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Travis to unpack some of the tougher moments life has thrown his way, focusing on rejection in the workplace, the importance of resilience, and the complex realities of representation. Here are three truly compelling topics we explored:

1. Discrimination & Bias in Job Interviews Travis shares a formative story about a job interview that went awry, not due to his experience or suitability, but because the interviewer was fixated on his appearance – namely, his earrings. This moment not only knocked his confidence but also planted seeds of self-doubt, forcing him to question whether underlying prejudices might have been at play. We delve into how both subtle and overt forms of bias can derail opportunities, and how to navigate the fallout when it occurs.

2. Navigating Rejection & Building Resilience We dive into how Travis used moments of professional rejection as fuel for growth rather than defeat. Instead of letting disappointment define him, he chose to “prove them wrong,” developing career direction, self-assurance, and a mindset that has served him well ever since. The conversation looks at how healthy support systems (like family) and self-reflection turn an ‘L’ into long-term resilience.

3. Representation: Parenting & Preparing the Next Generation As fathers of mixed-race children, Travis and I discuss the extra layers to parenting that come with navigating society’s perceptions and prejudices. From having honest conversations about race and difference to prepping our kids for the inevitable moments when they’re “the one that stands out,” we touch on the heartache and responsibility of making space for these truths – and share candid stories about why it matters for their confidence and well-being.

If you enjoyed this frank and open dialogue, please comment your favourite part and share Every L Podcast with someone who might find comfort or inspiration here. Don’t forget to check out previous episodes and let us know what moments or insights resonated with you most!

Questions for You:

1. Have you ever felt your appearance or background impacted an interview or opportunity, and how did you respond?

2. What strategies or support systems have helped you turn a rejection into a source of motivation, rather than defeat?

3. How do you handle conversations about race, representation, or identity within your own family or community?

Drop your thoughts in the comments, or reach out to us on social media (@everylpodcast on Instagram) – we’d love to hear your perspectives and keep the conversation going.

In this episode I sat down with my dear friend and remarkable human being, Cal-I, for an honest and heartfelt conversation. This episode is for anyone navigating rejection, career pivots, or finding the courage to chase after a long-suppressed dream. Here are three standout topics we covered that really struck a chord:

1. The Challenge of Career Change and Rejection 2. The Power of Having a Supportive Partner 3. Reframing the “L”

It’s the classic “every L is a lesson, not a loss.” Cal-I unpacked how that difficult experience of rejection didn’t signal the end but rather the beginning of deeper self-discovery, hard work, and resilience. He spoke about the dangers of seeking validation from industries or institutions and instead championing the slog of incremental growth (“small steps, big moves”). The conversation also spotlighted the importance of not comparing your journey to others’, and how even the most multifaceted, high-achieving people wrestle with imposter syndrome and doubt.

Want to Hear More? Listen to this truly inspiring episode to see how small pivots, an honest support system, and relentless faith in yourself can transform failure into growth. You’ll also hear about Cal-I’s headline-grabbing one-man show "No More Mr Nice Guy", lessons learned from touring, and insights on life after letting go of old identities.

Connect & Get Involved: Show Cal-I some love on Instagram at @caljonel and check out his and his wife’s amazing educational initiative at love-literacy.com.

More about Cal-I

Cal-I Jonel, an East London-born theatremaker and award-winning actor, began his artistic journey through community-based youth work, creating and directing plays. Alongside a decade-long career as a qualified teacher, he also ventured into music as a singer-songwriter and composer. Jonel has received commissions from Queen’s Theatre and Talawa Theatre, and his second full-length play was shortlisted for the Soho Theatre Tony Craze Award, earning ‘Highly Commended’ status. Recently, he premiered and toured his debut one-man, gig-theatre piece, “No More Mr Nice Guy,” to 5-star reviews, also receiving an OFFIE nomination.

Cal-I is a devoted husband and father or three. He hopes to encourage his children, and others, to pursue their dreams and live a life that is full.