Episode 29: Four Mums From York Rowed Across The Atlantic Ocean – A Chat with Helen Butters

Podcast Notes

What does it take to row across the Atlantic Ocean? For Helen Butters – NHS communications professional, life coach, motivational speaker, and record-breaking ocean rower, it wasn’t just about physical endurance. It was about mindset, teamwork, and turning a moment of restlessness into something remarkable.

In a recent episode of The Business Compass Podcast, Helen joined us to reflect on her life-changing Atlantic row and what it taught her about resilience, communication, and leading with purpose. Whether you’re running a business, leading a team, or navigating a personal turning point, Helen’s journey holds valuable lessons for us all.

Timestamps

Helen’s Professional Background (00:00:14)

Inspiration for the Atlantic Row (00:01:40)

Forming the Rowing Team (00:03:32)

Deciding to Enter the Atlantic Challenge (00:04:34)

Fundraising and Family Support (00:05:38)

Preparation and North Sea Row (00:08:18)

Lessons from the North Sea (00:09:29)

Teamwork and Personality Differences (00:12:22)

Publicity and Sponsorship Challenges (00:13:47)

Maintaining Motivation During Preparation (00:18:03)

Shared Vision and Team Goals (00:21:08)

Equipment Failures and Adaptation (00:25:28)

Facing Ocean Conditions and Trust (00:26:18)

Team Values and Supporting Each Other (00:28:39)

Mental Strategies and Visualisation (00:32:52)

Seeing Land and the End of the Journey (00:36:52)

Transitioning After the Adventure (00:39:02)

Translating Lessons to Business (00:45:08)

Building High-Performing Teams (00:47:39)