Today, I’m joined by James Longman, an award-winning journalist and author of The Inherited Mind, for a deeply personal and powerful conversation about mental illness, family history, and the complexities of healing. James opens up about his father’s struggles with schizophrenia and suicide, and how that experience shaped his own battles with depression and anxiety. Writing his latest book—a deeply personal exploration of his family’s history—was both cathartic and incredibly challenging, forcin...
Apr 08, 2025•40 min
In my first ever solo episode, I open up about the challenges of living with OCD, the fear of doing something new, and the everyday battles that come with a long-term mental health condition. I reflect on the power of saying "yes" even when it feels uncomfortable, the slow process of reclaiming joy, and what it’s taken to begin moving beyond the rigid, compulsive structure my OCD once demanded. This episode is about the tension between survival and connection—and the courage it takes to let peop...
Apr 06, 2025•24 min
In this episode of Healing 101, we explore the fascinating link between gut health and mental well-being with Dr. Federica Amati. The gut-brain axis plays a crucial role in everything from mood regulation to cognitive function, and emerging research shows that what we eat directly impacts our mental health. Dr. Amati breaks down: How the gut microbiome influences brain chemistry and mental well-being The role of diet in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety Why inflammation, leaky gut, and...
Apr 03, 2025•16 min
In this powerful episode of Hurt to Healing, I talk with journalist and editor Annabel Fenwick Elliot, who shares her deeply personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD at age 34. Annabel reflects on how ADHD impacted her life, from struggles in school and university to managing depression and navigating adulthood. She candidly discusses the strategies that have helped her work with, rather than against, her ADHD tendencies, including the use of medication and embracing openness about her cond...
Apr 01, 2025•31 min
Welcome to this Healing 101 episode, where we tackle one of the most pressing topics in mental health today—how to support teenagers through the challenges of growing up. I’m joined by Dr Beth Mosley, a psychologist who works closely with young people and families, to unpack the pressures teens face, from social media and school stress to navigating family relationships. Beth shares practical advice for parents, including how to set healthy boundaries around technology, keep communication open, ...
Mar 27, 2025•15 min
In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Josh Connolly, an emotional resilience coach, speaker and author of the transformative book It’s Them, Not You . Josh opens up about his personal journey of healing from a childhood shaped by trauma and growing up with a toxic, alcoholic parent. He shares how these early experiences influenced his struggles with addiction and self-worth, and how he’s since transformed those challenges into a mission to help others. Together, we explore the long-ter...
Mar 25, 2025•49 min
On today’s Healing 101 I am joined by Katie McKenna once again to talk about something that isn’t always visible but can have a profound and lasting impact—emotional abuse. Unlike physical abuse, emotional abuse can be subtle, insidious, and difficult to recognise, but its effects on self-worth, confidence, and relationships can be just as damaging. In this episode, we’ll explore the hidden signs of emotional abuse—from gaslighting and silent treatment to intense jealousy and role reversal in pa...
Mar 20, 2025•22 min
Welcome back to Hurt to Healing! Today, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Federica Amati, a medical scientist and registered nutritionist, to talk about how we can build a healthier relationship with food—without all the guilt and restriction. So often, nutrition advice focuses on what to cut out, but Federica believes the real power lies in what we add in. We’ll be talking about how to personalise your diet based on your age, life stage, and health needs, and why enjoying food is just as importan...
Mar 18, 2025•1 hr 7 min
Grief doesn’t follow a timeline — and it certainly doesn’t play by the rules. Whether it’s the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or the loss of a version of yourself, grief can show up in unexpected ways and stay longer than we’d like. In this episode, I speak with James Withey — therapist, speaker, and author of How to Get to Grips with Grief — to talk about what it really means to live with loss. James shares his own experience of bereavement and depression, and together we expl...
Mar 13, 2025•16 min
Today, we are joined by the accomplished model, actor, advocate and podcast host, Paul Sculfor. Paul’s journey is one of highs and lows—a dazzling career in the fashion world interwoven with struggles against addiction, anxiety, and self-discovery. In this candid conversation, he opens up about his formative years, grappling with family dynamics and societal pressures, his spiral into substance abuse, and, ultimately, his path to recovery and purpose. Together, we delve into the challenges of he...
Mar 11, 2025•45 min
Welcome back to Healing 101! In this episode, we’re joined by renowned psychotherapist and best-selling author Owen O’Kane. Owen breaks down the complexities of anxiety and stress, sharing powerful insights and practical tools to manage emotions, build resilience, and deepen self-awareness. With a compassionate approach, Owen helps us rethink mental health struggles, offering hope and actionable advice for anyone on their healing journey. Buy Owen's new book, 'Addicted to Anxiety': https://amzn....
Mar 06, 2025•21 min
In this thought-provoking episode of Hurt to Healing, I sit down with author Eleanor Anstruther to discuss the complexities of mental health stigma, particularly within traditionally closed-off communities. Eleanor examines why some mental health conditions, like bipolar disorder, are more widely accepted and treated, while others, such as narcissistic personality disorder, are misunderstood, overlooked, or even celebrated—despite the harm they can cause. Drawing from personal experiences and st...
Mar 04, 2025•39 min
Welcome back to Healing 101! In this episode, we are joined by the insightful psychotherapist and author Katie McKenna. Katie dives into the profound impact of childhood trauma, explaining how early experiences shape emotional patterns, relationships, and self-perception in adulthood. With warmth and clarity, Katie shares practical guidance on recognising trauma responses, breaking unhealthy cycles, and fostering healing. This thought-provoking conversation offers tools and perspectives you ca...
Feb 27, 2025•18 min
In this episode, Owen dives deep into the concept of anxiety—not just as a psychological state, but as a process we can unknowingly get hooked on. Drawing from his decades of experience, Owen explains how we can shift our relationship with anxiety, embrace our inner struggles, and reclaim control over our emotional wellbeing. We’ll discuss why anxiety often feels like an addiction, how understanding the root causes of anxious thoughts can lead to freedom, and why compassion—for ourselves and our...
Feb 25, 2025•47 min
In this Healing 101 episode, we’re diving into one of the most vital yet often overlooked pillars of our well-being—sleep. Joining me is Dr. Maja Schaedel, co-founder of The Good Sleep Clinic, clinical psychologist, and expert in treating sleep disorders like insomnia. This focused Q&A unpacks the essentials of good sleep, including the surprising connection between sleep and mental health, why insomnia persists, and practical tips for better rest. If you’ve ever struggled to fall or stay as...
Feb 20, 2025•22 min
In today's episode, I'm joined by Sophie Scott, a practicing transpersonal psychotherapist, the founder and editor-in-chief of wellness media brand BALANCE and the author of You Are Not Alone In This . Sophie shares valuable insights on navigating the complex dynamics of caregiving while maintaining boundaries and well-being. We dive into the concept of the "saviour complex," exploring how caregivers can recognise it in themselves and provide meaningful support to loved ones without sacrificing ...
Feb 18, 2025•39 min
In this Healing 101 episode, we’re tackling a topic that affects so many: burnout. Joining us is Dr Claire Plumbly, an expert in understanding and managing the chronic stress that leads to this all-too-common syndrome. Claire breaks down what burnout truly is—a result of chronic work-related stress that leaves you feeling physically and emotionally exhausted, detached, and struggling with a diminished sense of personal accomplishment. She explains that burnout doesn’t only affect high-powered pr...
Feb 13, 2025•30 min
Welcome to a brand new series of the Hurt to Healing Podcast! In this powerful first episode, I am honoured to be joined by Dr. Gabor Maté —renowned addiction expert, speaker, and bestselling author of the wonderful book, The Myth of Normal . What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Link Between Trauma & Addiction – Why childhood experiences shape our emotional and physical health What is a Toxic Culture? – How modern society fuels disconnection, stress, and mental illness The Danger of Labels...
Feb 11, 2025•49 min
In today’s mini-episode, I revisit a powerful and deeply personal conversation with Thomasina Miers. Known for her incredible culinary achievements, Thomasina opens up about how food and cooking became a cornerstone of her healing journey. In this episode, she shares her reflections on the transformative power of preparing and sharing meals, highlighting how cooking can be a creative and meditative process that fosters connection—not only with others but with oneself. Thomasina discusses the cha...
Dec 17, 2024•12 min
Welcome to this mini-episode of the podcast, where we revisit a powerful and emotional conversation with Neil Laybourn and Jonny Benjamin. In this heartfelt excerpt, Jonny shares his deeply personal experience with mental health struggles, his time in inpatient care, and the events that led him to Waterloo Bridge on a pivotal day in his life. Neil recounts his spontaneous decision to approach Jonny on the bridge, offering connection and hope during a critical moment, despite having no prior know...
Dec 10, 2024•15 min
In today’s special mini-episode, I revisit a conversation with the late Dr. Michael Strober, a true pioneer in the field of eating disorders. As I reflect on his recent passing, I want to celebrate his immense contributions to understanding and treating anorexia nervosa. Dr. Strober shares invaluable insights into the complexities of anorexia nervosa, unpacking the interplay of biology, psychology, and environment in its development. He explores the often misunderstood nature of the illness, the...
Dec 03, 2024•11 min
In this mini-episode, Ben Goldsmith revisits his journey through grief after the loss of his daughter, Iris. He reflects on how moments of sadness can feel relentless but also give way to fleeting comforts—a cup of tea, a sunny morning—that offer a sense of calm. Ben shares advice passed down from his mother, who endured her own losses, and how her words helped him gradually accept that life can go on. As he’s moved through grief, Ben explains that the pain, while overwhelming, has become a way ...
Nov 26, 2024•9 min
In this mini-episode, Ruby Wax shares a deeply personal insight into her experience with depression and the impact of mindfulness on her journey. She describes the overwhelming emptiness of depression, comparing it to “white noise” and, in severe moments, the desire for escape. Ruby also explains how her practice of mindfulness has become a lifeline. It hasn’t cured her depression, but it helps her prepare for challenging times and softens the mental spiral that depression often brings. This epi...
Nov 19, 2024•8 min
In this mini-episode, we’re diving into the powerful story of Shaun Flores as he candidly shares his journey through the challenges of OCD and depression. Shaun opens up about the moment he decided he was ready to fight back, from the spiral of online forums that deepened his hopelessness to the breakthrough moment that made him realise he couldn’t keep living under the weight of his intrusive thoughts. He describes how neuroplasticity and exposure therapy taught him to change his response to OC...
Nov 12, 2024•12 min
In this mini-episode from Hurt to Healing , Susannah Constantine shares her powerful journey from being a high-functioning alcoholic to finding sobriety. She opens up about the emotional toll of living a double life, the pivotal moment that made her realise she needed help, and the challenges of rebuilding trust with her family. Susannah sheds light on the often hidden nature of addiction and the strength it takes to confront it. Find Susannah: Instagram: @susannahconstantine Follow Hurt to Heal...
Nov 05, 2024•11 min
In this mini-episode of Hurt to Healing , we revisit a powerful converstion with Danny Gray . Danny opens up about his experience with body dysmorphia and the struggles he faced growing up, offering deep insights into what truly helps when supporting a loved one dealing with mental health challenges. He shares the journey that led him to create Warpaint for Men , a brand born out of personal pain and a desire to make a difference. Danny’s powerful reflections and practical advice are a reminder ...
Oct 29, 2024•12 min
In this mini-episode of Hurt to Healing , we revisit a deeply moving conversation with Laura Adlington. Laura opens up about the complexities of body image, food, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. She shares her personal journey with disordered eating and the emotional toll of constantly being judged for her appearance. Laura’s vulnerability shines through as she discusses her evolving relationship with food and how she’s learning to embrace body neutrality over the unrealist...
Oct 22, 2024•9 min
In today’s mini-episode of Hurt to Healing, we revisit an insightful conversation with mental health advocate Ben West. Ben passionately addresses the simple yet powerful solutions to the growing mental health crisis. He discusses the importance of education, prevention, and smarter allocation of resources, emphasising the need for mental health training in schools, just as we train teachers to respond to physical health crises. Ben shares why the path to meaningful change isn’t as complex as we...
Oct 15, 2024•12 min
Welcome to another mini episode of Hurt to Healing. In today's snippet, we’re diving into my insightful conversation with Millie Gooch, founder of the Sober Girl Society. Millie shares her experience navigating social events without alcohol, from dealing with the pressures of drinking culture to building confidence through sober dating. She also offers practical tips for anyone looking to reassess their relationship with alcohol and emphasises the growing "sober curious" movement. Follow Hurt to...
Oct 08, 2024•9 min
In today's mini snippet, we’re revisiting a powerful conversation with Anna Williamson, a well-known mental health advocate, who opens up about her journey with anxiety disorder. In this clip, Anna discusses the critical difference between everyday anxiety and anxiety disorders, and how the latter can deeply affect your quality of life. She shares her personal experience of managing triggers, the importance of self-awareness, and offers valuable insights on mental health struggles. Follow Hurt t...
Oct 01, 2024•9 min
