U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count cover art

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count

U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count

By: Dean James
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About this listen

‘Used to Be’s’ do indeed count! “I used to be…” refers to a past human state, role, condition, identity or experience. Understanding the importance of what or who someone ‘used to be’ can provide valuable insight into one’s life journey, reflecting on how our 'used to be' has had influence on who we are today.


Dean James talks to inspiring guests, revealing the most intriguing, inspiring and enthralling stories of a life's past experiences; successes, failures and lessons are reflected on as we celebrate change, transition, transformation and personal development.


We’re not dwelling on the past in a negative, stagnant way. We are giving it it’s proper time, power and reflection, so we can understand the impact it has had on who we are today!

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Dean James Relationships Social Sciences
Episodes
  • I Used To Be...A Victim of Rape

    I Used To Be...A Victim of Rape
    Nov 26 2025
    U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 12Dan Cooper | I Used To Be...A Victim of RapeMore than two decades ago, at just 19 years old, Dan Cooper’s life was shattered by a devastating sexual assault at the hands of someone he knew and trusted. What followed were years of battling the hidden scars - both mental and physical - that lingered long after the attack. Eventually, Dan found the strength to report the assault for a second time, and after months of enduring the complexities of the criminal justice system, his perpetrator was finally put to justice.In this raw, unfiltered, and unapologetic episode, Dan sits down with Dean James to share the truth behind his journey; how he fought through trauma, navigated the courts, and faced the overwhelming glare of media attention. His story is not just about survival, but about reclaiming power and finding purpose in the aftermath of pain.Today, Dan has transformed his experience into a mission. Through social media, he amplifies his voice to reach others who may feel silenced, offering hope, insight and solidarity. Beyond his advocacy, he serves as a mental health and well-being coach and dedicates himself to protecting others as a Fire Fighter. Proof that resilience can ignite strength, and that even the darkest chapters can lead to a life of impact.Follow Dan here:TikTokInstagramLinkedInFind out more about Dan's Story here: BBC NewsIf you are affected by any of the topics raised in this episode, please use the following links:Rape CrisisThe Survivor's TrustCALMSamaritansDon't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!www.u2bdc.comSpotifyAppleYouTubeAmazon MusicDeezerInstagramFacebookTikTok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • I Used To Be...Physically Dependant

    I Used To Be...Physically Dependant
    Nov 12 2025
    U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 11Joe O'Connor | I Used To Be...Physically Dependant At 14, Joe survived a near-fatal road accident. At 32, he fell 400 feet during SAS selection, breaking his neck and facing a prognosis of lifelong paralysis. In between, he served with distinction in the British Army, became a top-tier financial adviser in the City of London, and earned elite status as a Class 1 Army PTI and bomb disposal expert.But Joe’s story doesn’t end with survival...it’s about reinvention. After losing everything post-injury, he rebuilt his life from the ground up. Today, he’s the founder of The Transformer Company, a six-time Times-recognized top UK coach, and a man on a mission to help 1 million veterans achieve financial and personal success.In this powerful conversation with Dean James, Joe opens up about the mindset that helped him overcome trauma, paralysis, and personal loss. He reflects on lessons from the battlefield that apply to business, money, and everyday life. He inspires people to choose purpose after devastation, and discusses why resilience is a decision and perspective is everything when facing life’s toughest challenges.Joe’s story is raw, real, and deeply inspiring. He turned pain into purpose - and how you can too.Find out more about Joe's work here: Joe Teams Success ClubThe Transformer Transformation For VeteransFollow Joe here:InstagramLinkedInIf you are affected by any of the topics raised in this episode, please use the following links: Help For HeroesThe SamaritansMind CALMDon't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!www.u2bdc.comSpotifyAppleYouTubeAmazon MusicDeezerInstagramFacebookTikTok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • I Used To Be...A Pro Athlete

    I Used To Be...A Pro Athlete
    Oct 29 2025
    U2BDC: Used To Be's Do Count | Season 2, Episode 10Michael Bugary | I Used To Be...A Pro AthleteMichael Bugary rose from a promising young athlete to the Major Leagues, playing baseball for the Boston Red Sox. But a brutal arm injury shattered his career - and his identity. In this raw and honest episode he speaks to Dean James about spiralling into addiction and depression, and later facing a brain tumour the size of a lacrosse ball. After surviving multiple surgeries and cancer treatments, his battle with mental health and addiction continued...until he met Lingo. His therapy dog gave him new purpose and hope. Lingo helped Michael focus on his recovery and live in the moment, accepting what he can't change, but working hard to change what he could no longer accept.Now sober and thriving, Michael channels his journey into public speaking, inspiring audiences worldwide. His debut book, The Disease of Me, is set to release soon - a raw, powerful account of resilience, recovery, and reinvention.Find out more here...Michael BugaryBe the first to hear about the release of The Disease of Me...Sign Up to the Waitlist Follow Michael:InstagramLinkedInTikTokFacebookIf you were affected by any of the themes explored in this episode:UK Based:MindAlcoholics AnonymousSamaritansUSA Based:HelpMental Health AmericaDon't forget to like, subscribe, share, connect and comment...we can only grow with your help!www.u2bdc.comSpotifyAppleYouTubeAmazon MusicDeezerInstagramFacebookTikTok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    1 hr and 21 mins
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