What is Listenn.?
An opportunity for men to stop, reflect and be heard by a peer. Whilst culturally not often freely discussed, as men we need to find safe spaces that allow us to process the challenges and opportunities in front of us.
At times, we may not feel like close friends, family and colleagues are where we want to start. We frequently lack access to ‘community elders’ who for generations in many communities have sat and listened to those around them.
This is often enough but on occasions they offer support; encouragement; ask questions or provide signposts to others who may be better positioned to assist.
Currently, there are unprecedented pressures on us all and lots of twists and turns to navigate. If you would value carving out a space with a peer/elder who can listen, please drop us a line.
In our capacity at Listenn. we are not taking the role of a life coach or a counsellor. However if we are journeying together we do pledge the following and ask you to do the same:
- Create a safe space for both parties that is confidential.
- Be honest and authentic.
- That there is no expectation for either party to take responsibility for the other.
- Be respectful and always speak well of each other.
- Together, always find hope.
Who is Listenn.?
Russ Oliver is initiating and breathing life into this new proposition. At 54, he has been married for over 30 years and is blessed with 4 children. He has ‘stumbled’ through aspects of life and found inspiration in much that surrounds him.
He is a founder, investor and friend, who explores the new with faith and hope. Through his long term friendships and networks, he is well positioned to journey with others who at times would value a listening ear.
Is it for me?
Initially we can only journey with other men, this will change as we expand so please bear with us. We had to start somewhere and we all know that us men need as much help as we can get!
How to Listenn.
The process begins with a tight 15-minute free video or voice call, set up for you to question us and determine if there’s value in continuing the conversation together.
After this initial call, if you wish to push on, we agree where and how eg. walking; running; in the city or the countryside; phone; video call; etc. There is no commitment beyond each session so you always remain in control of what, when and how.
Once you’re on board, sessions are paid by donation to CALM, the men’s mental health charity, who we are supporting for the first year of our work as a way of evaluating the Listenn. proposition. The suggested donation is between £50 and £100 per hour (to be paid through our JustGiving page), and if we meet in person, coffee is always on us!
Choose your Listenn.er
Russ Oliver
Russ thrives when exploring the art of the possible. Whether that is with an early stage start up or large blue chip, he has frequently demonstrated his ability to unlock and create value for all.
With 30 years of commercial experience, he is most at home when the proposition has a social anchor where individuals and/or communities harness some benefit.
Russ is based in London / North Surrey.
Dave Bright
Dave is a highly experienced leader of transformation across the manufacturing and business value chain through engagement, coaching, leadership and operational excellence disciplines.
Dave is based in Swansea.
Alan Newbury
Alan enables people to see things from different perspectives, influencing their behaviour to effect different/improved results, and has spent many years, both inside and outside of work, doing just that.
With a range of experience across business disciplines and sectors, he brings practical know-how to his work. He is creative and innovative, as comfortable talking to large groups as he is coaching an individual.
Alan is based in Shrewsbury.