It All Makes Sense Now: ADHD Coach Meredith Carder Ever wondered why certain things have always felt harder — or just different — for you or someone you love? In this illuminating episode, we sit down with ADHD coach Meredith Carder to unpack the realities of living with ADHD and what it actually means in day-to-day life. From late diagnoses and misunderstood behaviours to self-compassion and neurodivergent strengths, Meredith brings insight, humour, and years of lived and professional experienc...
May 30, 2025•56 min•Season 2Ep. 14
We delve into the world of imaginary friends with esteemed experts, Professor Marjorie Taylor and Dr. Naomi R. Aguiar in light of the second edition of Imaginary Friends and the People Who Create Them (Second Edition ). Professor Taylor, a leading researcher and author of the acclaimed book Imaginary Friends and the Children Who Create Them, shares her extensive insights into how these companions contribute to child development. Professor Taylor is a developmental psychologist (Ph.D., Stanford U...
Feb 23, 2025•58 min•Season 2Ep. 15
In this episode, Leaf and Elfie chat with Sir David Spiegelhalter about his new book, The Art of Uncertainty . Spiegelhalter, one of the world's leading statisticians, shares his insights on how we can better understand and navigate uncertainty in everyday life. From the role of luck and risk to how statistics help us make smarter decisions, the discussion is full of practical advice for handling life’s unpredictability. Sir David also talks about the importance of embracing uncertainty, especia...
Dec 31, 2024•1 hr•Season 2Ep. 13
In this episode we sit down with Christian Amys, renowned wild food forager and chef who wowed audiences on MasterChef: The Professionals. Chris shares his fascinating journey into the world of foraging, exploring how his passion for wild ingredients blossomed and influenced his culinary career. We delve into the health benefits of foraging and the sustainable practices that make it a rewarding pursuit. Chris also takes us behind the scenes of his latest venture, Urban Forage in Stanmer, Brighto...
Jul 05, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 2Ep. 12
We have the absolute pleasure of welcoming Jo Woolf back onto the show. Jo passionately discusses women explorers who broke taboos by venturing out to explore the world. This episode exposes bold, brave, and expert women who often travelled alone to faraway lands, having both liberating and scary experiences, and contributed immensely to institutions such as The Royal Scottish Geographical Society. Jo is a Writer-in-Residence at The Royal Scottish Geographical Society and has written The Great H...
Jun 30, 2024•55 min
🎧 🌱🚫 In this episode we discuss veganism and allergy awareness with the insightful Oli Weatherall. Oli raises awareness of living with severe allergies through articles, interviews, and speeches in various media outlets such as the BBC, The Independent and V-Land UK! Discover the intersection of plant-based living and allergy education. Tune in for valuable insights and an eye-opening discussion! Links as per discussion: V-Land UK Is a vegan diet inherently and uniquely healthy? Oli Weatheral...
Apr 09, 2024•1 hr•Season 2Ep. 10
In this episode, we delve into the heartwarming and eye-opening documentary “Freedom to Run.” The film follows two remarkable groups of runners: one from Scotland and the other from Palestine. Marathon running: a symbol of perseverance and pushing your limits. But what happens when those limits are imposed by political realities? "Freedom to Run" explores the challenges faced by Palestinian runners training for a marathon in a land fractured by checkpoints and restricted movement. The filmmakers...
Mar 08, 2024•55 min•Season 2Ep. 9
In this episode, Leaf and Elfie are joined by Jo Woolf, the writer in residence of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society. Jo is the author of The Great Horizon, a collection of stories about explorers and adventurers who have shaped our world. Jo shares her passion for the British Isles and their rich heritage of myths and legends. She tells us about some of the places that inspired her, such as Loch Ness, Stonehenge, Glastonbury and the Isle of Skye. She also reveals some of the lesser-known ...
Dec 06, 2023•59 min•Season 2Ep. 8
We speak to Ryan A Bush, founder of Designing the Mind , and author of bestselling book, Designing the Mind: The Principles of Psychitecture. Ryan discusses his new book, Become Who You Are (out to buy in 2024), and on the show, provides listeners with invaluable insights and techniques to get into positive states through the path of self-becoming. Ryan A Bush is a designer and thinker focused on building better systems, better people, and a better future. Ryan's central purpose is to provide wi...
Sep 06, 2023•58 min•Season 2Ep. 7
In this episode Dr. Palanisamy discusses his groundbreaking 5-step approach to treating and healing autoimmune conditions. Leaf and Elfie, delve into topics such as addressing toxins, healing infections, improving gut health, proper nutrition, and conscious rest. Dr. Akil’s unique blend of functional medicine, Ayurveda, and ancestral nutrition offers a natural and effective “root cause” approach to autoimmune disease management. His protocol aims to empower individuals to prevent and reverse aut...
Aug 06, 2023•58 min•Season 2Ep. 9
In this episode we discuss pain with Kevin Hunt , a chartered physiotherapist with 25 years of clinical experience working with people suffering from persistent pain. In his groundbreaking book, Pain: The Ultimate Mentor , we challenge misconceptions about pain and explore Hunt's holistic framework on utilising your body and mind to live a better life. A must-read for not only people suffering from persistent pain but a useful guide for all to have a greater understanding of our bodies to live a...
Jul 02, 2023•59 min•Season 2Ep. 8
In this episode, we have the honor of hosting Jay Shafer, the esteemed godfather of the tiny home movement and author of the renowned book, "The Small House Book." Join us on a journey through the remarkable story of Jay Shafer, a true pioneer who has redefined the concept of home with his innovative designs and unwavering passion for simplicity. Discover the influence he has had on the tiny house movement, inspiring countless individuals to embrace a minimalist lifestyle and pursue their big dr...
Jun 07, 2023•58 min•Season 2Ep. 7
In this podcast interview, we sit down with Patrick Alley, author of Very Bad People , as he shares his experiences investigating human rights abuses across the globe. Alley recounts tales of car chases through Cambodia and the bravery required to confront corrupt officials and criminals. His firsthand accounts of the political landscape in Cambodia provide a captivating listen, shedding light on the terrible atrocities committed by those in power. If you're a fan of true crime and investigative...
May 10, 2023•1 hr•Season 2Ep. 6
We speak with human rights barrister, Adam Wagner , about his new book Emergency State: How We Lost Our Freedoms in the Pandemic and Why it Matters. Adam is the UK’s leading authority on the law relating to COVID-19. From 2020-2021 he was Specialist Advisor to Parliament’s Joint Committee on Human Rights Inquiry into the government’s response to the pandemic and assisted in the writing of five reports. Adam founded and chairs the multi-award winning human rights education charity EachOther , set...
Feb 06, 2023•1 hr•Season 2Ep. 5
In this episode we speak to Professor of Renaissance and Magical Literatures, Marion Gibson from University of Exeter. From Salem to rural Sussex - Marion investigates witch trials and what they can tell us about culture, politics, religion and gender throughout history. Marion helps us explore questions: Were women the only ones accused of casting spells? What motivated communities to turn on their friends? Why might some women be seen as dangerous and 'bewitching'? Marion's book on witches in ...
Jan 18, 2023•59 min•Season 2Ep. 4
In this episode we speak with Vegan Choice Award Winner, Ben Richardson AKA Ben the Forest Foodie. Ben is a writer, forest school teacher, blogger, photographer and vegan influencer. We speak to Ben about how an internship on an organic farm changed his life and turned him vegan! As well as how children benefit from forest schools and being in nature. We learn about forest bathing, finding calm at home, and how to make delicious vegan sushi! @bentheforestfoodie ✨ VEGAN CHOICE AWARD WINNER ✨ 😊 P...
Nov 02, 2022•58 min
Why do hugs feel good? Can hugs cure loneliness and depression? Is hugging a tree good for you? What is the optimal length of time to hug for "feel-good" hormones? Can you hug yourself? In this episode Leaf and Elfie talk with Prof. Sebastian Ocklenburg about the science of hugging to find out answers to these questions and understand his research on social touch. Sebastian Ocklenburg, Ph.D., is a professor for research methods in psychology at the Department of Psychology at MSH Medical School,...
May 03, 2022•56 min•Season 2Ep. 3
In this episode we speak with the No.1 Laughter Yoga UK Facilitator, Pete Cann. Join along with some laughter exercises, and discover the therapeutic benefits of laughing including: Bonding with family, friends and colleges Techniques to release happy hormones how to laugh when life isn't very funny Find out more on Pete's website or visit his youtube channel for inspiration. https://www.youtube.com/c/PeteCann-TheLaughterMan...
Apr 05, 2022•59 min•Season 2Ep. 2
Virtual reality is more widely used than ever before - from virtual documentaries on social issues to the Metaverse and dance-off simulators. But can it be used to make us more empathetic? In this episode we we speak with Professor Matthew Cotton, Professor of Public Policy at Teesside University, UK. We discuss the use of VR in expanding our own experiences and seeing if the technology could have lasting impact on how we perceive other people. Professor Matthew Cotton is a Lecturer at Teesside ...
Feb 20, 2022•1 hr•Season 2Ep. 1
On this podcast we speak with Kate Howells, who represents The Planetary Society. We discuss defending earth, aliens, other worlds, space exploration and priorities. Kate is the author of Space Is Cool As F*** , a science columnist for The Editorial Magazine, and creator, writer, and producer of the digital series Whoa. Kate serves on the Government of Canada's Space Advisory Board and is a trusted media source for expertise and analysis of Canadian space policy. Go to www.planetary.org for more...
Jun 05, 2021•1 hr 20 min•Season 1Ep. 14
Is watching porn bad for you? Free websites and smart phones make it easier than ever to watch porn - and billions of us are doing just that. But some scientists are starting to worry about the consequences and there is a growing movement away from pornography led by young men negativity affected by "the new drug". We talk with experienced sex therapist Mig Bennett to find out some of the side effects of porn addiction. Mig works with individuals where pornography, online sexual encounters, mult...
Feb 02, 2021•56 min•Season 1Ep. 13
In this episode Leaf and Elfie meet former Scientology member Chris Shelton and talk about his 30 years of experience in the organisation. Chris now exposes Scientology and the psychology behind destructive cults. Watch chris on Youtube or on his website: www.mncriticalthinking.com
Oct 26, 2020•1 hr 49 min•Season 1Ep. 12
In 2020, animal welfare charity Viva! launched 'Hogwood: A Modern Horror Story'. The documentary film is presented by Jerome Flynn and exposes the harrowing conditions on a Warwickshire pig farm. Their undercover footage ultimately forced big brand like Tesco to rethink their relationship with the company, but only after the animal-loving British public reacted to shocking scenes of abuse. Does the e xposé highlight one 'bad apple' in the industry, or does it completely shatter the consumers' id...
Aug 20, 2020•1 hr 5 min•Season 1Ep. 11
Brexit, animal welfare, legislation, schools, health - the food choices that we make are political. How does vegetarianism fit in? In this 'Vegetarian Special' podcast interview we speak with longtime animal rights campaigner, vegetarian and Conservative MP Henry Smith about the the challenges facing the UK. How might Brexit impact food standards e.g chlorinated chicken? Should care homes cater for our dietary choices in later life? What are issues around animal welfare legislation? Should dolph...
Aug 20, 2020•1 hr 26 min•Season 1Ep. 10
In this episode Leaf and Elfie talk with Dr Carl Johan Calleman on the subject of Mayan Quantum Science and Psychedelics. Dr Calleman is recognized as a world authority on the Mayan Calendar and his latest book ‘Quantum Science of Psychedelics’ launched this year on worldwide release. We hear his theory that explains how psychedelics interact with the human mind to create altered states that may further the continued evolution of consciousness. Website: www.callemen.com Amazon book link: Quantum...
Aug 11, 2020•1 hr 9 min•Season 1Ep. 9
To overcome anxiety and panic attacks, Ben Aldridge delves into the world of stoicism, Buddhism, CBT and extreme challenges. Ben's new book, How to be Comfortable with being Uncomfortable, is based on experiences building a resilient mind and body by getting out of his comfort zone in weird and wonderful ways including: Taking ice baths Climbing mountains Queuing unnecessarily Inducing vertigo Memorising a deck of cards Having an outrageous clothes day We talk to Ben about his 'Anti-bucket List'...
Jul 30, 2020•51 min•Season 1Ep. 8
It's a sad fact that young men often really struggle in our society. 95% of prisoners are men 80% of the homeless population is male 13 men every day will commit suicide In this episode we speak with Hugh Newton, who leads the training at award-winning charity 'A Band of Brothers'. The organisation has an unorthodox approach to "re-fathering" young men and takes inspiration from the rites of passage ceremonies in African culture. The charity has been successful in dramatically reducing the reoff...
Jul 16, 2020•59 min•Season 1Ep. 7
Boredom. We've all experienced it from time to time, but what does it actually do? Can it make us angry? Make us depressed? Slowly kill us? Or does it serve a less clear and more positive function? In this episode we speak to a Professor of Cognitive Neuroscientist and boredom 'expert', James Danckert who aims to answer these and many other boredom related questions in his research at the University of Waterloo. If you have ever wondered: Do animals get bored? How do I make people really, really...
Jun 29, 2020•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 5
People are taking up a plant-based diet to improve their health, help the environment or to address animal welfare concerns. Sam Shorkey is a pioneering body builder, fitness coach and first ever vegan World Naturals bikini pro. We catch up with Sam to discuss: Transitioning to a healthy vegan diet (without piling on pounds!) Building muscle and losing fat Highs and lows of bodybuilding bikini competitions Sam also shares her top tips for an instagram envied booty, that you can do at home. Check...
Jun 22, 2020•1 hr 1 min•Season 1Ep. 4
Our relationship with machines is changing. Artificial intelligence has changed the way we manufacture, spend our leisure time and gather information - but what does it mean for human intimacy in the future? In this episode we talk to sex tech researcher Eleonor Hancock who has interviewed sex workers, technology pioneers and robot enthusiasts to try to answer the questions: Will sex robots replace humans? What are the risks of artificial intelligence in the sex industry? How might crime and sex...
Jun 08, 2020•1 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 4
