Hurt to Healing: Mental Health & Wellbeing

Where do you start when life feels like too much? On this bonus episode of Seen, I'm joined again by Toni Tone, author of Soft Life. We pick up where our main conversation left off, with the small, practical shifts that make life feel a little more gentle. Toni shares why she'd start with what you can control and what you can stop doing, not with something new. We talk about why rest doesn't have to be earned, why sitting still can feel so uncomfortable, and the phone boundary most of us need. She also gives me a brilliant question for telling a real want from a "should". In this episode, you'll learn: - Where to start when you feel overwhelmed, and why stopping is easier than starting - Why rest doesn't have to be earned, and why resting can feel so uncomfortable - The one question that shows whether you really want something, or just feel you should - Simple ways to make your life 10% softer this week, from sleep to time with friends Chapters: Feeling Overwhelmed? Where To Start (00:00) Why Rest Doesn't Have To Be Earned (01:11) How To Learn Contentment And Stop Always Striving (02:51) The Boundary Most Of Us Need: Using Our Phones Less (03:58) Should Vs Want: How To Tell The Difference (05:58) When A Should Is Still Worth Doing (08:15) How To Make Your Life 10% Softer This Week (10:12) Connect with Pandora Morris 💌 Substack: Subscribe to Pandora's newsletter for honest reflections and thoughtful conversations about mental health, wellbeing, and life.→ https://substack.com/@seenwithpandora🎧 Never miss an episode of SEEN! Listen to the podcast anytime, anywhere. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ku2D90pNwBLM17HvLxlB1?si=fbcad6ff3bb24bfa Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/seen-with-pandora-morris/id1649515453 Connect with Pandora Morris🌐 Website: https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seenwithpandora/💛 Recommended Resources: Explore Pandora's collection of mental health and wellbeing resources for additional guidance and support.→ https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/resources ABOUT SEEN Hosted by Pandora Morris, Seen is a podcast featuring bold, brave, and honest conversations about mental health, wellbeing, relationships, and the experiences that shape our lives. Through personal stories and expert insights, Seen creates space for understanding, connection, and healing.

How do you actually stop overthinking?On this episode of Seen, I sit down with clinical psychologist Dr Jessamy Hibberd, author of The Overthinking Cure. Her book opened my eyes to so many tools I had never thought of.Jessamy calls overthinking the problem that disguises itself as the solution. It feels useful, but she says the research shows it does not solve problems, and it should come with a health warning. We talk about rumination and worry, what happens in your brain when your mood drops, the expectation gap, perfectionism, and why modern life makes it so easy to overthink.Then we get practical. Jessamy explains what a doom spiral is, why you need to shift your mood before you try to think your way out, and why the research suggests it takes only about eight minutes. She walks through the five steps from her book and explains why clarity comes from action, not before it.In this episode, you'll learn:- Why overthinking feels productive, and what the research actually says about it- The difference between rumination, worry and healthy reflection- How to shift your mood first, and why Jessamy says it takes about eight minutes- The five steps to breaking the cycle, from noticing a thought to facing the fearIf your own mind has felt exhausting lately, I hope this one gives you somewhere gentle to start.Chapters: What Overthinking Is, And When It Turns Destructive (00:00) Why Overthinking Is The Problem Disguised As The Solution (02:45) What Happens In Your Brain When Your Mood Drops (04:52) The Link With Anxiety, And How To Spot Your Triggers (06:29) Why We Reach For Food, Busyness Or Addiction Instead (09:05) Comparison, Control And Why Modern Life Fuels Overthinking (10:31) Why Your Predictions Are Rarely Right, And Going Anyway (16:13) Doom Spirals: What They Are And How To Notice One (19:31) How To Break A Spiral, And Why It Only Takes 8 Minutes (21:14) Why Overthinking Preys On What Matters Most To You (23:14) The Spotlight Of Attention, And Why Thoughts Aren't Facts (29:16) The 5 Steps To Breaking The Cycle (34:19) Rebuilding Trust In Yourself, One Decision At A Time (38:58) Can An Overthinker Change, And What If You Feel Trapped (43:06) When Jessamy Felt Truly Seen (45:30)This episode is for education only and isn't medical advice. We touch on anxiety, addiction and disordered eating. If any of it feels close to home, please speak to your GP or a qualified therapist.

How can you tell the difference between a tough boss and a narcissistic one?In this clip, I'm joined by Kathleen Saxton to talk about narcissistic bosses, both men and women. We explore the one question that separates a tough boss from a toxic one, why female narcissists can be harder to spot at work, the exact phrases to use when your boss criticizes you, how to rebuild trust in your own judgment after being gaslit, and how to help a colleague who is struggling. Connect with Pandora Morris 💌 Substack: Subscribe to Pandora's newsletter for honest reflections and thoughtful conversations about mental health, wellbeing, and life. → https://substack.com/@seenwithpandora 🎧 Never miss an episode of SEEN! Listen to the podcast anytime, anywhere. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ku2D90pNwBLM17HvLxlB1?si=fbcad6ff3bb24bfa Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/seen-with-pandora-morris/id1649515453 Connect with Pandora Morris🌐 Website: https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seenwithpandora/ 💛 Recommended Resources: Explore Pandora's collection of mental health and wellbeing resources for additional guidance and support. → https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/resources ABOUT SEEN Hosted by Pandora Morris, Seen is a podcast featuring bold, brave, and honest conversations about mental health, wellbeing, relationships, and the experiences that shape our lives. Through personal stories and expert insights, Seen creates space for understanding, connection, and healing.

What if the independent, ambitious life you've built is the very thing you've started to blame for keeping love at arm's length? On this episode of Seen, I'm joined by Toni Tone, the writer, podcaster and big-sister voice so many women turn to when love, work and self-worth get tangled. She is the Sunday Times bestselling author of I Wish I Knew This Earlier and her new book, Soft Life: 10 Steps to a Gentle, Abundant and Easeful Life. We talk about why dating feels so much harder than it used to, why choosing a partner matters as much as being chosen, and how to build a softer life without shrinking your ambition. At a time when so many of us are tired, over-scrolled and measuring ourselves against everyone else's highlights, it's a conversation about deciding what enough actually looks like. So many of us have wondered, after another quiet stretch, whether we should soften our edges to be easier to love, and we have chased the next milestone believing it would finally make us feel settled. This conversation suggests neither is true. You're allowed to want more, and you're allowed to stop proving you deserve it. In this episode, you'll learn: - Why the illusion of choice on social media makes it harder to build something real - The one question to ask yourself before you stay with someone - How to say no kindly, and why you should practise on the small things first - What to stop doing, rather than start, when your life feels anything but soft About Toni Tone: Toni Tone is a Sunday Times bestselling author, award-winning podcast host of Toni Told Me and one of the UK's most trusted voices on relationships and self-worth. Often called the internet's big sister, she writes about love, ambition and softness with the candour of someone who has lived every lesson herself.Her new book, Soft Life: 10 Steps to a Gentle, Abundant and Easeful Life, is out now from Bloomsbury Tonic. Connect with Toni Tone: Website: https://www.tonitone.co.uk Book: https://www.waterstones.com/author/toni-tone/4876745 Chapters: What Women Ask Toni Most, And What Lies Beneath It (00:00) How Social Media And The Illusion Of Choice Changed Dating (02:13) Who Succeeds On Dating Apps, And Why The Real Work Is (Offline (05:20) How To Meet People In Real Life, And Why You Should Choose Too (09:31) Feeling Enough, And What You Start To Attract (12:31) Am I Too Much? Why You Have Priced People Out (16:08) What Six Years In The Wrong Relationship Taught Her (18:55) Why You Should Never Date Someone For Their Potential (20:06) Learning To Make Yourself Your Own Priority (21:18) Do You Have To Love Yourself Before You Can Be Loved? (22:17) Ambition And Fulfilment: How Much Is Actually Enough? (27:08) Why Real Wealth Is Freedom And Health, Not Millions (29:14) How To Set Boundaries And Say No Kindly As A People Pleaser (35:26) Soft Life In A Hard World: Who Gets Access To Softness (42:34) One Small Step If Your Life Feels Anything But Soft (46:52) When Toni Feels Most Seen, And A Quick True Or False (48:32) This one is close to my heart. I hope it leaves you feeling like you are already enough.

In this Seen Session, I’m joined by Emma Louise Boynton to explore why we can feel disconnected from our bodies, how shame and self-criticism get in the way of pleasure, and the small everyday shifts that can help us feel more like ourselves again. Connect with Pandora Morris 💌 Substack: Subscribe to Pandora's newsletter for honest reflections and thoughtful conversations about mental health, wellbeing, and life. → https://substack.com/@seenwithpandora 🎧 Never miss an episode of SEEN! Listen to the podcast anytime, anywhere. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ku2D90pNwBLM17HvLxlB1?si=fbcad6ff3bb24bfa Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/seen-with-pandora-morris/id1649515453 Connect with Pandora Morris🌐 Website: https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seenwithpandora/ 💛 Recommended Resources: Explore Pandora's collection of mental health and wellbeing resources for additional guidance and support. → https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/resources ABOUT SEEN Hosted by Pandora Morris, Seen is a podcast featuring bold, brave, and honest conversations about mental health, wellbeing, relationships, and the experiences that shape our lives. Through personal stories and expert insights, Seen creates space for understanding, connection, and healing.

How do you know if your boss is a narcissist? On this episode of Seen, I sit down with psychotherapist and corporate mediator Kathleen Saxton, author of Sly & Mighty. Kathleen came on the show before to talk about narcissistic parents in My Parent the Peacock, and this time we turn to the person many of us spend even more hours with. She explains what narcissistic leadership actually means clinically, how to spot the types, and why the first few weeks under one feel like everything you ever wanted. We talk about why it is so hard to see any of it while you are still inside, which Kathleen calls the dirty fish tank, and then get practical: the swing from golden child to scapegoat, why silence makes bystanders complicit, and stay, play or slay, the three honest choices you have. Key Takeaways: -The early red flags of a narcissistic boss, and why the first few weeks feel so good - What the dirty fish tank is, and how a toxic culture quietly changes the way you behave - Why intermittent reinforcement keeps you trying to please a boss who will never be pleased - Stay, play or slay, and how to take back your agency at work Chapters: What A Narcissistic Boss Really Looks Like (00:00) The Dark Triad: Why Psychopaths Get Promoted (07:13) The Dirty Fish Tank: How Toxic Cultures Spread (13:27) 5 Masks Toxic Bosses Hide Behind (20:46) Why Nobody Speaks Up Until It's Too Late (27:56) How A Toxic Boss Follows You Home (35:00) Should You Confront Your Narcissistic Boss? (42:32) Kathleen Saxton is an accredited psychotherapist and a registered member of both the UKCP and the BACP. Before retraining she spent twenty-five years in media as an entrepreneur, Global CMO and talent agent to the C-suite, on the boards of companies ranging from Sky to Omnicom. She trained at Regents University and the CCPE in London, now practises in London and New York, consults to businesses on executive psychology, writes a column for Stylist on leadership and psychology, and runs the psycho-education channel ClinicwithK. Her new book, Sly and Mighty: How to Recognise, Resist and Rise Above Toxic Power, is out on 24 September with Sheldon Press.Her first book, My Parent the Peacock, is out now. -https://www.sheldonpress.co.uk/titles/kathleen-saxton-2/sly-and-mighty/9781399836890/ - https://www.waterstones.com/book/sly-and-mighty/kathleen-saxton/9781399836876 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clinicwithk/ One of the clearest conversations I have had about power, and about the relief of finding out that what you took to be your own failure to cope is a pattern with a name. Connect with Pandora Morris 💌 Substack: Subscribe to Pandora's newsletter for honest reflections and thoughtful conversations about mental health, wellbeing, and life. → https://substack.com/@seenwithpandora 🎧 Never miss an episode of SEEN! Listen to the podcast anytime, anywhere. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ku2D90pNwBLM17HvLxlB1?si=fbcad6ff3bb24bfa Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/seen-with-pandora-morris/id1649515453 Connect with Pandora Morris🌐 Website: https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seenwithpandora/ 💛 Recommended Resources: Explore Pandora's collection of mental health and wellbeing resources for additional guidance and support. → https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/resources ABOUT SEEN Hosted by Pandora Morris, Seen is a podcast featuring bold, brave, and honest conversations about mental health, wellbeing, relationships, and the experiences that shape our lives. Through personal stories and expert insights, Seen creates space for understanding, connection, and healing.

Is self-compassion just being soft on yourself? Not at all. In this conversation, psychologist Sarah Ann Macklin explains what self-compassion really is, why self-esteem is a poor measure of your worth, and how self-pity keeps you stuck. She also shares simple tools you can start using today, including the selfie test and the friend filter. Connect with Pandora Morris 💌 Substack: Subscribe to Pandora's newsletter for honest reflections and thoughtful conversations about mental health, wellbeing, and life. → https://substack.com/@seenwithpandora 🎧 Never miss an episode of SEEN! Listen to the podcast anytime, anywhere. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ku2D90pNwBLM17HvLxlB1?si=fbcad6ff3bb24bfa Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/seen-with-pandora-morris/id1649515453 Connect with Pandora Morris🌐 Website: https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seenwithpandora/ 💛 Recommended Resources: Explore Pandora's collection of mental health and wellbeing resources for additional guidance and support. → https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/resources ABOUT SEEN Hosted by Pandora Morris, Seen is a podcast featuring bold, brave, and honest conversations about mental health, wellbeing, relationships, and the experiences that shape our lives. Through personal stories and expert insights, Seen creates space for understanding, connection, and healing.

Why is it so hard to enjoy sex when you have spent years at war with your body? On this episode of Seen, I sit down with writer Emma Louise Boynton, founder of Sex Talks and author of Pleasure. I devoured her book and couldn't wait for this conversation. Emma opens up about developing an eating disorder as a young teenager and what it took from her. She explains how it worked as a coping mechanism, why understanding what it gave her mattered more than finding its cause, and what a later ADHD diagnosis helped her make sense of. We talk about how disconnecting from your body makes intimacy feel impossible, why sex education that never mentions pleasure teaches us to perform rather than feel, and the contentification of sex online. Emma also shares how sex therapy at 28 changed everything, starting with one line from her therapist: for as long as she was at war with her body, she would struggle to enjoy pleasure. In this episode, you'll learn: - Why disconnecting from your body makes intimacy so much harder, and how that can be relearned - What a pleasure journal is, and why Emma's therapist started there rather than with sex - Why good sex education has to include pleasure and bodily boundaries, not just risk - How to start with body neutrality when loving your body feels completely out of reach Thank you Emma for being so honest. If you take one thing from this, let it be what she says to every woman who tells her she is broken: you are not alone, and you are not broken. Chapters: The Darkness Behind The Confidence (00:00) How An Eating Disorder Takes Hold So Young (02:19) Why Someone With An Eating Disorder Is So Hard To Reach (05:21) The Turning Point That Made Her Want To Get Better (09:52) What Your Eating Disorder Is Giving You, And The ADHD Link (14:03) Early Sex And Living In A Body You Cannot Feel (18:18) Why Sex Education Never Mentions Pleasure (21:21) The Case For Lifelong Sex Education And Porn Literacy (28:46) Bonnie Blue And The Contentification Of Everything (34:01) Rock Bottom At 28 And The Dinner Party That Changed Everything (36:15) At War With Your Body, And Why Your Body Is Your Home (41:39) Why Recovery Is A Dance, Not A Finish Line (46:54) What Sex Therapy Actually Looks Like, And The Pleasure Journal (48:36) The Shame Around Bulimia, And Finding Good Company (53:03) Why We Still Cannot Talk About Sex Openly (56:14) Where To Begin If You Feel Disconnected From Your Body (1:00:49) This episode is for education only and isn't medical advice. If you are struggling with your relationship with food or your body, please speak to your GP, or reach out to an eating disorder charity such as Beat.

Where do you start when you realise you're struggling with your mental health? In this bonus episode of Seen, author Gemma Styles joins me again for a few more questions after our main conversation. Gemma's advice for a first step is simple: speak to someone. It doesn't have to be the perfect person, or the perfect way. If saying it out loud feels too hard, write it down or send a text. She also shares who she first opened up to. We talk about the difference between feeling sad and being depressed, and why casual phrases like "I'm so ADHD" or "I'm a bit OCD" don't help anyone. Gemma also explains why she pushes back on the idea that ADHD is overdiagnosed. Then we get practical. Gemma shares the small, everyday things that help her, from feeding herself properly and getting outside to being honest when she has nothing left in the tank, as an introvert and a mum. In this episode, you'll learn: - How to take a first step when you're struggling, even if it's just a text - Why you don't have to wait until things get worse to look after your mental health - Small daily habits that help Gemma look after herself - Why mental health and neurodivergence don't look the same in everyone I hope this one reminds you that we're all different, and that's what makes life so beautiful and rich. Chapters: Where to Start When You're Struggling With Your Mental Health (00:00) Who Gemma First Opened Up To (02:13) Is ADHD Overdiagnosed? Why Language and Labels Matter (03:09 ) Sad or Depressed? Situational vs Clinical Depression (06:34) Mental Health Maintenance: Gemma's Daily Non-Negotiables (09:56) How Gemma Protects Her Social Energy as an Introvert (12:30) Why Mental Health Doesn't Look the Same in Everyone (13:40) This episode is for education only and isn't medical advice. If you're struggling, please speak to your GP or someone you trust. Connect with Pandora Morris 💌 Substack: Subscribe to Pandora's newsletter for honest reflections and thoughtful conversations about mental health, wellbeing, and life. → https://substack.com/@seenwithpandora 🎧 Never miss an episode of SEEN! Listen to the podcast anytime, anywhere. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ku2D90pNwBLM17HvLxlB1?si=fbcad6ff3bb24bfa Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/seen-with-pandora-morris/id1649515453 Connect with Pandora Morris🌐 Website: https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seenwithpandora/ 💛 Recommended Resources: Explore Pandora's collection of mental health and wellbeing resources for additional guidance and support. → https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/resources ABOUT SEEN Hosted by Pandora Morris, Seen is a podcast featuring bold, brave, and honest conversations about mental health, wellbeing, relationships, and the experiences that shape our lives. Through personal stories and expert insights, Seen creates space for understanding, connection, and healing.

Why does being healthy feel so hard, when we have more health information than ever? On this episode of Seen, I sit down with nutritionist Sarah Ann Macklin, author of the bestselling book Healthy Shouldn't Be This Hard. I devoured her book, and I loved this conversation. Sarah has worked in wellbeing for over a decade. She says we don't have an information problem. We've lost ourselves in the middle of the health conversation. So we talk about the part most of us skip: the way we speak to ourselves. We get into how constant self-criticism keeps your body in stress mode. We talk about why sleep tracking can turn into an obsession, and why self-compassion can boost your motivation instead of making you lazy. Sarah also opens up about her two burnouts, and why reaching a big goal can still leave you feeling empty. We also talk about the new GLP-1 weight loss pill. Sarah shares why she's worried about people taking it when it isn't meant for them, including the effects on muscle and bone health. This topic is very close to my heart. In this episode, you'll learn: - Why being hard on yourself can make healthy habits harder to stick to - What self-compassion really is, and why it isn't letting yourself off the hook - How to be your own parent, from your morning routine to your phone - How a one-day thought journal can show you what your inner critic is saying I hope this one helps you be a little kinder to yourself. Chapters: Why Is Being Healthy So Hard? (00:00) Why Drastic Health Changes Often Fail (05:17) Orthosomnia: When Sleep Tracking Becomes an Obsession (06:35) Are You Living in a Dysregulated Nervous System? (09:37) What Is Self-Compassion? And Why It Makes Us Cringe (14:46) How to Talk to Yourself Like a Good Friend (18:37) Does Self-Compassion Make You Lazy? (24:12) Be Your Own Parent: Simple Daily Habits (28:51) The Arrival Fallacy: Why Success Can Feel Empty (31:49) Burnout: What Happens When You Ignore Your Body (36:43) How to Use a Thought Journal (38:36) Loneliness, Relationships and Longevity (41:27) GLP-1 Weight Loss Pills: Muscle and Bone Health Concerns (42:47) Why Nobody Has It All Figured Out (52:24) Dyslexia, Self-Belief and Feeling Truly Seen (56:35) This episode is for education only and isn't medical advice. Please speak to your GP before starting any medication. Connect with Pandora Morris 💌 Substack: Subscribe to Pandora's newsletter for honest reflections and thoughtful conversations about mental health, wellbeing, and life. → https://substack.com/@seenwithpandora 🎧 Never miss an episode of SEEN! Listen to the podcast anytime, anywhere. Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ku2D90pNwBLM17HvLxlB1?si=fbcad6ff3bb24bfa Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/seen-with-pandora-morris/id1649515453 Connect with Pandora Morris🌐 Website: https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seenwithpandora/ 💛 Recommended Resources: Explore Pandora's collection of mental health and wellbeing resources for additional guidance and support. → https://www.seenwithpandoramorris.com/resources ABOUT SEEN Hosted by Pandora Morris, Seen is a podcast featuring bold, brave, and honest conversations about mental health, wellbeing, relationships, and the experiences that shape our lives. Through personal stories and expert insights, Seen creates space for understanding, connection, and healing.

In this personal solo episode, Pandora looks back on four years of Hurt to Healing and the extraordinary journey that has brought her here. She shares how learning to trust herself, embrace uncertainty and choose the things that make life bigger has transformed her recovery, before revealing the exciting new name and vision for the podcast as it enters its next chapter. Seen with Pandora Morris is Coming Soon! Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I'm joined by OCD advocate and content creator Zachary Tucker for a conversation about one of the most misunderstood aspects of OCD: intrusive thoughts. We explore what intrusive thoughts really are, why reassurance can actually keep OCD going, some of the lesser-known forms of the condition, and where to find support if you think you might be struggling yourself. Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I'm joined by the brilliant Katriona O'Sullivan - psychologist, bestselling author, and one of the most insightful voices on trauma, self-worth and our relationship with our bodies. We talk about her powerful new book, Hungry, and explore how our earliest experiences shape the way we see ourselves, why so many of us feel we're never enough, and what it really takes to heal. This is an honest, moving conversation about body image, eating disorders, trauma, self-compassion and finding freedom in your own skin. I hope you enjoy our conversation. Find Katriona: https://katrionaosullivan.co.uk/ Read her book 'Hungry': https://amzn.eu/d/00OPjRTX Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I'm joined by resilience coach and breathwork facilitator Josh Connolly for a conversation about somatic healing, breathwork and the powerful connection between our minds and bodies. We explore how emotions can become trapped in the body, why practices like breathwork and movement can help us process difficult experiences, and some simple tools you can use to feel more grounded, present and connected to yourself. Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week I'm joined by writer, broadcaster and mental health campaigner Natasha Devon. Natasha has spent nearly two decades working in schools, speaking to thousands of young people about everything from anxiety and perfectionism to social media, body image and friendship. In this episode, we get into what's really happening to the next generation, from the impact of smartphones and AI to why genuine human connection is becoming harder to find. We also talk about why banning social media might not be the answer, what parents are getting wrong, and why Natasha believes authenticity, not perfection, is what young people need most. We also chat about her brilliant new book, The Nuance Drought, which explores how we've lost the ability to have thoughtful, balanced conversations in an increasingly polarised world. Find Natasha: Website: https://www.natashadevon.com/ Instagram: @_natashadevon Buy her books: https://www.natashadevon.com/books Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I'm joined by content creator and autism advocate Ella Willis for a conversation all about autism spectrum disorder, diagnosis, sensory overwhelm and what it's really like to navigate the world as an autistic person. We explore some of the biggest misconceptions about autism, how autism can present differently in women, the diagnosis process, and practical ways to better understand and support both yourself and the autistic people in your life. Find Ella: Instagram: @_ellawillis Buy Ella’s book: https://amzn.eu/d/0cmX9SiQ Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week I'm chatting to author, speaker and neurodiversity advocate Ellie Middleton, whose brilliant book Unmasked has helped thousands of people better understand what it really means to be autistic or ADHD. We talk about what it feels like to receive a late diagnosis, the exhausting reality of masking, why so many women go undiagnosed for years, and how finally understanding your brain can completely change the way you see yourself. Ellie also shares her experience of burnout, people-pleasing and learning to build a life that works with her brain, rather than constantly fighting against it. Find Ellie: Website: https://www.weareunmasked.com/ellie Instagram: @elliemidds Buy her books: https://amzn.eu/d/0hpH8QNl Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's Healing 101, I'm joined by the brilliant Kate Moyle, psychosexual therapist and relationship expert, for a conversation all about intimacy, desire, communication and what it really means to have a healthy relationship with sex. We talk about why so many people feel disconnected from their bodies, the impact mental health can have on intimacy, how to communicate your needs with a partner, and the small things we can do to feel more connected to ourselves and each other. Find Kate: Instagram: @katemoyletherapy Website: https://www.katemoyle.co.uk/ Listen to Kate's podcast, The Sexual Wellness Sessions: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-sexual-wellness-sessions/id1527311547 Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's guest is someone many of you will know and love from previous episodes, the brilliant Josh Connolly. Josh is a resilience coach, breathwork facilitator and one of the most honest voices in the mental health space. In this conversation, we talk about everything from community and connection to modern masculinity, dating, boundaries, healing and why so many of us feel exhausted by the pressure to have life figured out. What I love about Josh is that he never pretends to have all the answers. Instead, he offers a refreshingly real perspective on what it means to navigate life's messy middle moments, sit with discomfort and keep going when things feel hard. Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello and welcome back to Healing 101. Today's episode is with the brilliant Shahroo Izadi, behavioural change specialist and author of *Why Diets Make Us Fat*. If you've ever struggled to understand the difference between emotional hunger and physical hunger, found yourself trapped in cycles of dieting or binge eating, or wondered how to build a healthier relationship with food, this conversation is for you. We talk about comfort eating, shame, self-trust and why so many of us use food to change how we feel. Most importantly, Shahroo shares practical, compassionate advice on how to break free from all-or-nothing thinking and create lasting change. I hope you enjoy it. Buy her book: https://amzn.eu/d/05FDoaqD Find Shahroo: Website: https://www.shahrooizadi.co.uk/ Instagram: @shahroo_izadi Books: https://www.shahrooizadi.co.uk/books Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I'm joined by OCD advocate and content creator Zachary Tucker for a powerful conversation about living with OCD, intrusive thoughts, uncertainty and recovery. Zack shares his personal journey with OCD, from relationship OCD and health anxiety to the misconceptions that so many people still have about the condition. We talk about the role of fear and doubt, why OCD attaches itself to the things we care about most, and the tools that have helped him build a life that is no longer controlled by anxiety. Whether you have OCD yourself, love someone who does, or simply struggle with overthinking and self-doubt, there's so much insight and hope in this conversation. Find Zack: Instagram: @ocddestigmatize Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Healing 101. Today I’m joined by psychologist and bestselling author Dr Tara Porter for a conversation about parenting, teenagers, boundaries and what children really need emotionally from us. We talk about the difference between normal teenage behaviour and genuine warning signs, why parents so often panic when children begin to pull away, and how important it is to stay connected even through the messy stages of adolescence. We also discuss perfectionism, people pleasing and why being a good enough parent is far more important than trying to be a perfect one. Find Dr Tara Porter: Website: https://www.taraporterpsychologist.com/ Instagram: @drtaraporterpsychologist Books: https://www.taraporterpsychologist.com/school-packages Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s guest is the brilliant Kate Moyle, psychosexual therapist, relationship expert and author, for a fascinating conversation about sex, dating, relationships and the impact they have on our mental health. We explore everything from dating burnout and ghosting to body image, intimacy, libido and why so many of us feel pressure to get sex and relationships ""right"". Kate shares practical advice on navigating modern dating, building confidence and creating healthier conversations around sex. I learned so much from this conversation, and I hope you do too. Find Kate: Instagram: @katemoyletherapy Website: https://www.katemoyle.co.uk/ Listen to Kate's podcast, The Sexual Wellness Sessions: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-sexual-wellness-sessions/id1527311547 Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Healing 101 bonus episode, I’m joined by Dr. Paul Conti to explore the power of self-inquiry and why understanding ourselves is at the heart of true healing. We discuss how approaching ourselves with curiosity rather than judgment can help us break free from limiting beliefs, better regulate our emotions, and create meaningful change from within. Dr. Conti shares simple, practical ways to begin this process, as well as the importance of empathy, humility, and developing a deeper awareness of our inner world in order to build a stronger, more resilient sense of self. Pre order Paul's book: https://amzn.eu/d/06VI4hKa Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I’m joined once again by the brilliant Shahroo Izadi for a conversation about dieting, binge eating, shame and why so many of us feel trapped in exhausting cycles with food. We talk about her powerful new book, Why Diets Make Us Fat, and explore why restriction so often leads to overeating, why food becomes such an emotional coping mechanism, and how so many of us internalise the belief that our worth is tied to our body size. What I love about Shahroo’s approach is that it’s incredibly compassionate, practical and free from judgment. This conversation is not about perfection or willpower. It’s about understanding behaviour, breaking shame cycles and learning how to make small sustainable changes that actually last. Buy her book: https://amzn.eu/d/05FDoaqD Find Shahroo: Website: https://www.shahrooizadi.co.uk/ Instagram: @shahroo_izadi Books: https://www.shahrooizadi.co.uk/books Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Healing 101 bonus episode, I’m joined by psychologist and author Lucy Foulkes to explore how to tell the difference between normal emotional struggles and a diagnosable mental health condition. We discuss the rise in self-diagnosis, the overuse of terms like anxiety, OCD, and trauma, and why not every difficult feeling needs to be pathologised - alongside when it’s important to seek help and how to better understand what you’re really experiencing. Find Lucy: Website: https://www.lucyfoulkes.co.uk/ Read Lucy's books: https://www.lucyfoulkes.co.uk/books Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I’m joined by writer and creator Ella Willis to talk about autism, masking, sensory overwhelm and what it feels like to move through the world feeling different from everybody else. We discuss Ella’s brilliant new book, Literally, and have a really honest conversation about late diagnosis, friendships, relationships, people pleasing, routine and the exhaustion that can come from constantly trying to fit into environments that don’t feel built for you. What I loved so much about this conversation is how relatable it is, whether you are neurodivergent yourself or simply someone who has ever felt misunderstood, overstimulated or emotionally overwhelmed. Ella speaks with such honesty, humour and self awareness, and I think so many of you will take comfort from this episode. Find Ella: Instagram: @_ellawillis Buy Ella’s book: https://amzn.eu/d/0cmX9SiQ Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s Healing 101, I speak with psychotherapist Joshua Fletcher (Anxiety Josh) to bridge the gap between the mind and the body. Josh explains the 'bell curve' of a panic attack - reassuring us that it is physically impossible to stay stuck in that peak state and breaks down the 'threat mode' that can make us feel like we’re watching life through glass. We dive into practical tools for expanding a world shrunk by avoidance, from the 'non-anxious you' test to the 'Wise Mind' technique for silencing rumination. It’s a masterclass in reclaiming your agency and moving from a state of constant monitoring to one of authentic resilience and joy. Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I’m joined by psychologist and bestselling author Dr Tara Porter for a conversation about parenting, perfectionism and what children really need from us emotionally. We talk about why so many young people are struggling with anxiety, overwhelm and feelings of not being good enough, and how modern parenting can sometimes unintentionally fuel those pressures. Tara shares such wise and compassionate insights about attachment, boundaries, overachievement, social media and the importance of being a good enough parent rather than a perfect one. What I loved most about this conversation is that it feels deeply reassuring. It’s not about getting everything right. It’s about connection, curiosity and allowing children the space to become fully themselves. I think every parent, and honestly every adult, will take something from this episode. Find Dr Tara Porter: Website: https://www.taraporterpsychologist.com/ Instagram: @drtaraporterpsychologist Books: https://www.taraporterpsychologist.com/school-packages Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s Healing 101 episode, I’m joined by Hannah Alderson to explore the often-overlooked link between our hormones and our mental health - because sometimes what we think is anxiety, low mood, or burnout might actually have a deeper, physiological root. We talk about the subtle signs your symptoms could be hormonally driven, how things like sleep, stress, and your cycle all play a role, and why learning to tune into your body is just as important as any test or diagnosis. It’s a really empowering, eye-opening conversation that reminds you to trust yourself, advocate for your health, and approach your body with a little more curiosity and compassion. Find Hannah: Website: https://www.hannahalderson.com/ Instagram: @hannahaldersonnutrition Pre-Order Her Book (out in May): https://amzn.eu/d/0hitUyCn Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by Tommy Wood to explore how we can better look after our brains in a world that often leaves us overstimulated, overwhelmed, and mentally exhausted. We discuss his new book, The Stimulated Mind, and what it really means to future-proof your brain—not just against dementia, but against brain fog, burnout, and the daily demands of modern life. Tommy explains why cognitive decline isn’t inevitable, how our brains can keep changing at any age, and why small, realistic habits can make a meaningful difference over time. From sleep, movement, nutrition, focus, and social connection to the impact of AI, multitasking, and constant notifications, this conversation is a practical and reassuring guide for anyone who wants to feel sharper, calmer, and more in control of their brain health. Find Tommy: Website: https://www.drtommywood.com/ Instagram: @drtommywood Listen to his podcast: https://www.drtommywood.com/podcast Buy his book: https://amzn.eu/d/0g37QBhj Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Healing 101, Bryony Gordon unpacks people pleasing as a learned survival response rooted in fear and control, rather than simply being “nice.” She explores how trying to manage others’ emotions can lead to burnout, resentment, and a loss of self, and why surrendering control can feel both uncomfortable and deeply freeing. The conversation highlights the importance of boundaries—not as selfish, but as essential protection—and challenges societal expectations around being agreeable, especially for women. With gentle, practical insights on noticing these patterns and reconnecting with yourself, this episode is a powerful reminder that you deserve to take up space, choose where your energy goes, and put yourself first without guilt. Find Bryony: Instagram: @bryonygordon Books: https://www.headline.co.uk/contributor/bryony-gordon/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-life-of-bryony/id1763828544 Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I am joined by Lucy Foulkes, psychologist, researcher, and author specialising in youth mental health, to unpack what we really mean by “mental health.” We explore the difference between everyday emotional experiences and clinical conditions, and why feeling anxious or low doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong. Lucy explains how mental health problems are defined by their severity, duration, and impact on daily life, and why adolescence is such a vulnerable period shaped by brain development, social pressures, and major transitions. We also dive into the bigger picture, from the impact of poverty and peer dynamics to the growing demand for support that far outweighs available resources. Lucy offers a thoughtful perspective on the current mental health conversation—challenging over-diagnosis, questioning whether opening up is always the answer, and exploring how therapy, education, and even AI could play a role in better supporting those who need it most. Find Lucy: Website: https://www.lucyfoulkes.co.uk/ Read Lucy's books: https://www.lucyfoulkes.co.uk/books Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s Healing 101 episode, I’m joined by TJ Power to talk about the “DOSE framework” - dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins - and how these four chemicals quietly shape how we feel day to day. We get into the subtle signs your brain might be feeling a little depleted, why you might be struggling with focus or motivation, and some really simple, gentle shifts you can make - like how you start your morning or finding moments of flow - to begin feeling more like yourself again. Find TJ: Website: https://tjpower.co.uk/ Instagram: @tjpower Buy his book: https://thedoseeffect.co.uk/ Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode, I sit down with psychotherapist Joshua Fletcher (known to many as "Anxiety Josh") to dismantle the modern "optimisation era." Josh explains why our obsession with instant fixes - from 5:00 AM ice baths to AI therapy bots - is actually fuelling our anxiety by eroding our ability to tolerate discomfort. He challenges us to stop "running away" from our feelings and instead build the emotional scaffolding needed to find peace in the stillness. Drawing from his book Same Time Next Week, Josh pulls back the curtain on the therapy room, sharing his own experiences with imposter syndrome and the "round table" of internal voices that shape our reality. We explore the "death of curiosity," the power of being truly seen, and why the most compassionate thing you can do for a racing mind is often the one thing we fear most: absolutely nothing. Find Josh: Buy his new book 'Same Time Next Week': https://amzn.eu/d/0gBZKClA Website: School of Anxiety Instagram: @anxietyjosh LinkedIn: Joshua Fletcher Linktree: All Resources & Contact Podcast: Disordered Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Healing 101 episode, historian David Courtwright explains how modern companies have "hacked" our brains to turn everyday pleasures into hard-to-break habits. He introduces the idea of Limbic Capitalism, a global system where things like social media, fast food, and addictive drugs are specifically designed to hijack the brain’s reward centre. David explores why digital technology is the new frontier of addiction - making "hits" of dopamine cheaper and more accessible than ever - and offers a hopeful perspective on recovery, reminding us that it often takes multiple attempts to finally reclaim our focus and freedom. Find David: Website: https://davidcourtwright.domains.unf.edu/ Buy his book 'The Age of Addiction': https://amzn.eu/d/01vG1z76 Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Paul Conti, a world-renowned psychiatrist and graduate of Stanford and Harvard, who is widely recognized as one of the most insightful voices in modern mental health. Dr. Conti joins us to challenge the way we pathologise our minds, moving the focus away from "what’s broken" and toward the "human birthright" of what is actually going right. He shares how we can shift from feeling disempowered by labels to feeling truly empowered through what he calls compassionate curiosity. We also dive into his highly anticipated upcoming book, The Architecture of Self, which provides a definitive map of the structure and function of the human mind. Dr. Conti explains how balancing our internal drives - assertion, pleasure, and the all-important generative drive - allows us to change our internal narratives and physically transform our reality. It’s a masterclass in reclaiming your identity and building a life grounded in agency and health. Pre order Paul's book: https://amzn.eu/d/06VI4hKa Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Healing 101 episode, Dr. Sharon Bergquist explains how "micro-doses" of intentional stress can actually disease-proof your body. We dive into the science of hormesis - the biological "sweet spot" where deliberate discomfort activates ancient vitality genes to repair DNA and boost resilience. By balancing these stressors with strategic recovery, Dr. Bergquist reveals how we can "shape-shift" our biology to become more agile, mentally sharper, and physically robust. Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today’s episode of Hurt to Healing, I’m joined by Gemma Styles. I recently read her book Why Am I Like This? and it resonated with me so much, so it felt really special to sit down and have this conversation with her. We talk about her experience of anxiety and depression, what it felt like navigating university and early adulthood, and the impact of being diagnosed with ADHD later in life. We also explore friendship, introversion, rejection sensitivity, social media and that constant inner voice that tells you you’re not quite enough. It’s a really honest, grounding conversation about understanding yourself more clearly and learning to meet yourself with more compassion. Find Gemma: Instagram: @gemmastyles Buy Gemma's book: https://amzn.eu/d/01bZzYEI Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Healing 101 episode, I am joined by Oona Metz to explore the agonizing "slow fade" of a marriage and why it so rarely ends in a single moment. We discuss the physical toll of chronic disconnection - from autoimmune issues to nervous system burnout - and the "denial" that keeps many trapped in the hope of a better tomorrow. Oona offers vital insights on the difference between a marriage that needs repair and one that is defined by abuse, reminding us that you should never have to "light yourself on fire to keep someone else warm." Whether you are contemplating a split or struggling with the shame of initiating one, this conversation is a compassionate guide to reclaiming your self-worth. Find Oona: Website: https://www.oonametz.com/ Read Unhitched: https://amzn.eu/d/0bZl9mXV Instagram: @oonametz Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today’s episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Bryony Gordon, and it was such a joy to record this one together in person. We talk about her new novel People Pleaser, and the pressure so many women face to keep everyone happy, hold everything together and never let a single plate drop, even when we’re completely exhausted. Bryony shares so openly about people pleasing, perfectionism, addiction, OCD and motherhood, and what it really takes to start setting boundaries and live more truthfully. It’s a funny, sharp and very relatable conversation, and I think so many of you will see yourselves in it. Find Bryony: Instagram: @bryonygordon Books: https://www.headline.co.uk/contributor/bryony-gordon/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-life-of-bryony/id1763828544 Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Healing 101, I’m joined by neuroscientist Marc Berman to explore how our environment shapes the way we think, feel and function. As the days get longer and we naturally start spending more time outside, this conversation feels especially timely. We unpack attention restoration theory and the difference between the kind of focus that gets depleted through modern life and the kind that is gently restored through “soft fascination” found in nature. Marc shares simple, practical ways to reduce mental fatigue, from designing more restorative spaces to small daily habits that can help reset your mind. This is a hopeful reminder that even brief moments of connection with nature can support clarity, calm and a deeper sense of wellbeing. Find Marc: https://psychology.uchicago.edu/directory/marc-g-berman Buy Marc's book: https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/305368/marc-berman Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined by neuroscientist, speaker and bestselling author TJ Power, whose work has helped so many people understand what modern life is doing to our brains. TJ is the author of DOSE, a book all about the four key brain chemicals that shape how we feel — dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins — and how our screens, habits and lifestyles can throw them completely out of balance. If you’ve ever felt wired but flat, hooked on your phone, constantly waiting for the next thing, or like your mind just won’t settle, this conversation will feel incredibly familiar. We talk about dopamine, anticipation, ADHD, OCD, flow state, overstimulation and why so many of us feel both burnt out and unable to stop. It’s a fascinating, relatable and genuinely useful conversation about how we can start to understand our brains better and create lives that feel calmer, clearer and more connected. Find TJ: Website: https://tjpower.co.uk/ Instagram: @tjpower Buy his book: https://thedoseeffect.co.uk/ Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s Healing 101, I’m joined by Dr Lalitaa Suglani, author of High Functioning Anxiety, to unpack a term so many of you have messaged me about. We talk about what high functioning anxiety actually is, the “swan” analogy of looking calm on the surface while paddling frantically underneath, and how it can hide behind productivity, perfectionism and people pleasing. Lalitaa explains the difference between high functioning anxiety and high functioning depression, why shame keeps these patterns alive, and how rejection sensitivity can send us spiralling over the smallest things. Find Lalitaa: Website: https://drlalitaa.com/ Instagram: @dr.lalitaa Order Her Book: https://drlalitaa.com/lalitaa/highfunctioninganxiety Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s episode is a really personal one with Melanie Lawson, founder of Bare Biology and a previous sponsor of the podcast. We talk honestly about living with OCD, how it can shape shift over time, and what intrusive thoughts and compulsions actually feel like in the body, especially when you’re tired, stressed, hormonal, or going through change. We also get into the overlap with ADHD and rejection sensitivity, how OCD shows up in motherhood and relationships, and the small, practical things that help Melanie keep it from taking over. If you have OCD, love someone who does, or you’re stuck in loops of doubt and self blame, I really hope this makes you feel less alone. Visit Bare Biology: https://www.barebiology.com/ Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing: Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpod YouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpod TikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpod Substack: substack.com/@hurttohealing Website: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.