Hurt to 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.

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 reachThank 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 everyoneI 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.

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. 

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/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/00OPjRTXStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @_natashadevonBuy her books: https://www.natashadevon.com/booksStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @_ellawillisBuy Ella's book: https://amzn.eu/d/0cmX9SiQStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/ellieInstagram: @elliemiddsBuy her books: https://amzn.eu/d/0hpH8QNlStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @katemoyletherapyWebsite: https://www.katemoyle.co.uk/Listen to Kate's podcast, The Sexual Wellness Sessions: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-sexual-wellness-sessions/id1527311547Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/05FDoaqDFind Shahroo:Website: https://www.shahrooizadi.co.uk/Instagram: @shahroo_izadiBooks: https://www.shahrooizadi.co.uk/booksStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @ocddestigmatizeStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @drtaraporterpsychologistBooks: https://www.taraporterpsychologist.com/school-packagesStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodYouTube: youtube.com/@hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @katemoyletherapyWebsite: https://www.katemoyle.co.uk/Listen to Kate's podcast, The Sexual Wellness Sessions: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-sexual-wellness-sessions/id1527311547Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/06VI4hKaStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/05FDoaqDFind Shahroo:Website: https://www.shahrooizadi.co.uk/Instagram: @shahroo_izadiBooks: https://www.shahrooizadi.co.uk/booksStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/booksStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @_ellawillisBuy Ella's book: https://amzn.eu/d/0cmX9SiQStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @drtaraporterpsychologistBooks: https://www.taraporterpsychologist.com/school-packagesStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @hannahaldersonnutritionPre-Order Her Book (out in May): https://amzn.eu/d/0hitUyCnStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @drtommywoodListen to his podcast: https://www.drtommywood.com/podcastBuy his book: https://amzn.eu/d/0g37QBhjStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @bryonygordonBooks: https://www.headline.co.uk/contributor/bryony-gordon/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-life-of-bryony/id1763828544Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/booksStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @tjpowerBuy his book: https://thedoseeffect.co.uk/Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/0gBZKClAWebsite: School of AnxietyInstagram: @anxietyjoshLinkedIn: Joshua FletcherLinktree: All Resources & ContactPodcast: DisorderedStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/01vG1z76Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/06VI4hKaStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @gemmastylesBuy Gemma's book: https://amzn.eu/d/01bZzYEIStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/0bZl9mXVInstagram: @oonametzStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @bryonygordonBooks: https://www.headline.co.uk/contributor/bryony-gordon/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-life-of-bryony/id1763828544Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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-bermanBuy Marc's book: https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/305368/marc-bermanStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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: @tjpowerBuy his book: https://thedoseeffect.co.uk/Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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.lalitaaOrder Her Book: https://drlalitaa.com/lalitaa/highfunctioninganxietyStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: 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/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Healing 101, I'm joined by Pupinder Ghatora, pharmacist and founder of Ingenious, to explore the powerful connection between physical recovery and long-term wellbeing. Pupinder shares the story of his own health crisis and spinal surgery, and how it led him to rethink how we support the body through healing, from the inside out. We talk about collagen, supplements, and the science behind repair, but also zoom out to the bigger picture: what it means to build a strong foundation for health, navigate stress and burnout, and care for our bodies with consistency rather than quick fixes. This is a practical, hopeful conversation about resilience, recovery, and how small daily choices can support us in feeling stronger over time.Thank you to INGENIOUS for sponsoring this episode. INGENIOUS is on a mission to be the voice of truth in the collagen world. Their approach is simple: clinically tested formulas, ingredient transparency, and science-backed results you can trust. They're offering listeners 20% off with the code HEALING20 at https://ingeniouslife.com/Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's episode is one I've been so excited to share because we're talking about addiction in a way that feels much more human and much less “labels and lectures”. I'm joined by David Courtwright, historian and author of The Age of Addiction, and we explore how addiction so often begins in pleasure, then quietly tips into something compulsive, shame-filled and costly not just for the person, but for everyone around them.What I really loved about this conversation is how it widens the lens. We talk about why addiction isn't only about substances anymore, how modern life is basically designed to hook our brains, and David's brilliant idea of “limbic capitalism” which is essentially the business of hijacking our reward system for profit. If you're struggling with something yourself, or you're supporting someone who is, I think this will leave you feeling less alone and more clear about what's actually going on and where change can start.Thank you to INGENIOUS for sponsoring this episode. INGENIOUS is on a mission to be the voice of truth in the collagen world. Their approach is simple: clinically tested formulas, ingredient transparency, and science-backed results you can trust. They're offering listeners 20% off with the code HEALING20 at https://ingeniouslife.com/Find David:Website: https://davidcourtwright.domains.unf.edu/Buy his book 'The Age of Addiction': https://amzn.eu/d/01vG1z76Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's HEALING 101, I'm joined by Nadia and Katia Narain, for a gentle but powerful conversation about the beautiful concept at the heart of their new book: glimmers.We explore what glimmers really are - those small, often overlooked moments that signal safety and ease to the nervous system - and why they're so different from gratitude. Together, we talk about how learning to notice these tiny experiences of calm, connection, and okay-ness can help regulate stress, soften anxiety, and slowly shift us out of overwhelm. It's a soothing, reassuring discussion filled with practical insight and a reminder that healing doesn't always come from big breakthroughs, but from the smallest moments of feeling just a little more okay.Find Nadia and Katia:Instagram: @nadia.and.katiaBuy their book: https://amzn.eu/d/08CuHlBQStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode of Hurt to Healing, I'm talking to nutritionist and hormone specialist Hannah Alderson about something so many of us hear about all the time, but don't always fully understand - our hormones.From anxiety and low mood to brain fog, burnout, PMT, perimenopause and feeling completely unlike yourself, Hannah explains how hormones can shape so much of how we think, feel and function. We also get into her own journey with PCOS and endometriosis, the role of stress and blood sugar, and why looking after your hormonal health doesn't have to mean perfection - just small, supportive changes that help your body feel safer and more balanced.Thank you to INGENIOUS for sponsoring this episode. INGENIOUS is on a mission to be the voice of truth in the collagen world. Their approach is simple: clinically tested formulas, ingredient transparency, and science-backed results you can trust. They're offering listeners 20% off with the code HEALING20 at https://ingeniouslife.com/Find Hannah:Website: https://www.hannahalderson.com/Instagram: @hannahaldersonnutritionPre-Order Her Book (out in May): https://amzn.eu/d/0hitUyCnStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Healing 101, Julia is joined by broadcaster and presenter Ore Oduba for a deeply honest conversation about addiction, shame and the coping mechanisms we develop to manage difficult emotions. Ore speaks openly about his relationship with pornography, the moment it stopped feeling like a harmless habit and began to feel like something more troubling, and the internal struggle that followed.Together they explore the emotional landscape beneath addictive behaviours — including anxiety, grief, identity and the pressure to perform. This is a thoughtful conversation about the courage it takes to confront the parts of ourselves we would rather hide, and the possibility of healing that emerges when we bring those struggles into the light.Thank you to INGENIOUS for sponsoring this episode. INGENIOUS is on a mission to be the voice of truth in the collagen world. Their approach is simple: clinically tested formulas, ingredient transparency, and science-backed results you can trust. They're offering listeners 20% off with the code HEALING20 at https://ingeniouslife.com/Find Ore:Instagram: @oreodubaofficialStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, I'm joined by preventive medicine physician and author Dr Sharon Bergquist, whose book The Stress Paradox challenges the idea that all stress is harmful and offers a far more hopeful, evidence-led way of thinking about what's happening in our minds and bodies.Together, we explore the difference between chronic, depleting stress and the kinds of “good stress” that can build resilience at a cellular level. Sharon explains why recovery matters as much as challenge, how to recognise when stress is helping versus harming, and the small, realistic habits that can strengthen your capacity to cope so you're not just getting through life, but actually growing through it.Thank you to INGENIOUS for sponsoring this episode. INGENIOUS is on a mission to be the voice of truth in the collagen world. Their approach is simple: clinically tested formulas, ingredient transparency, and science-backed results you can trust. They're offering listeners 20% off with the code HEALING20 at https://ingeniouslife.com/Find Sharon:Website: https://drsharonbergquist.com/Instagram: @thegoodstressdoctorBuy her book: https://amzn.eu/d/0df3zDagStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's Healing 101 episode, I'm joined by doctor, mental health advocate, and bestselling author Dr Alex George for a conversation about what it really means to be “normal.”Together, we explore why normality is often a misleading lens for understanding ourselves, the difference between impulsivity and compulsivity, and the many hidden ways OCD can show up beyond the stereotypes. Alex shares personal reflections from his own experience, alongside compassionate insights on intrusive thoughts, rumination, and learning to gently redirect attention.This episode is a powerful reminder that our quirks, sensitivities, and differences are not flaws to fix, but parts of ourselves to understand - and sometimes even our greatest strengths.Thank you to INGENIOUS for sponsoring this episode. INGENIOUS is on a mission to be the voice of truth in the collagen world. Their approach is simple: clinically tested formulas, ingredient transparency, and science-backed results you can trust. They're offering listeners 20% off with the code HEALING20 at https://ingeniouslife.com/Find Alex:Website: https://www.dralexgeorge.co.uk/Instagram: @dralexgeorgeBuy His New Book "Am I Normal?": https://amzn.eu/d/aoEqbLDListen to Stompcast: https://www.dralexgeorge.co.uk/podcastStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today I'm joined by Dr Marc Berman, a leading researcher on how nature impacts the brain, attention, and mental health.Marc explains the difference between directed (voluntary) attention and involuntary attention, why so many of us feel depleted by modern life, and why time in nature can genuinely restore focus - even if you don't “feel like it.” We talk depression, anxiety and ADHD-like symptoms, the surprising links between green space and behaviour (including stress and aggression), plus practical ways to get your “dose” of nature and even bring some of its benefits indoors.Thank you to INGENIOUS for sponsoring this episode. INGENIOUS is on a mission to be the voice of truth in the collagen world. Their approach is simple: clinically tested formulas, ingredient transparency, and science-backed results you can trust. They're offering listeners 20% off with the code HEALING20 at https://ingeniouslife.com/Find Marc:https://psychology.uchicago.edu/directory/marc-g-bermanBuy Marc's book: https://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/305368/marc-bermanStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today's Healing 101, I'm joined by broadcaster, author, and psychology expert Claudia Hammond, whose latest book, Overwhelmed, explores why so many of us feel like life has simply become too much.In this episode, we unpack what overwhelm actually is, when stress shifts from helpful to harmful, and the subtle signs that your mind and body may be under strain. Claudia shares practical, research-backed tools for managing information overload, protecting your attention, and building small daily habits that guard against burnout.We also explore simple ways to reset your nervous system — including breathing techniques and cultivating moments of awe — and why feeling better is often less about doing more, and more about choosing more wisely.Thank you to INGENIOUS for sponsoring this episode. INGENIOUS is on a mission to be the voice of truth in the collagen world. Their approach is simple: clinically tested formulas, ingredient transparency, and science-backed results you can trust. They're offering listeners 20% off with the code HEALING20 at https://ingeniouslife.com/Find Claudia:Website: https://claudiahammond.com/Buy her new book 'Overwhelmed': https://amzn.eu/d/b9YY7DX Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today on Hurt to Healing, I'm joined by therapist and divorce expert Oona Metz, author of Unhitched: The Official Divorce Guide for Women. We talk about why divorce can still feel so loaded with shame, why women so often carry the guilt (especially with children), and the difference between ending a marriage legally and leaving it emotionally - which often happens long before the paperwork. Oona shares practical, steady guidance for the messy middle: how to talk to your children, handle friends and family, get the right support, and move through the grief towards real healing and a new chapter.Thank you to INGENIOUS for sponsoring this episode. INGENIOUS is on a mission to be the voice of truth in the collagen world. Their approach is simple: clinically tested formulas, ingredient transparency, and science-backed results you can trust. They're offering listeners 20% off with the code HEALING20 at https://ingeniouslife.com/Find Oona:Website: https://www.oonametz.com/Read Unhitched: https://amzn.eu/d/0bZl9mXVInstagram: @oonametz Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I'm joined by Will Dobud, therapist, researcher, and author of Kids These Days, to explore why so many young people are struggling - and why more intervention doesn't always mean better outcomes. We talk about his outdoor, solution-focused approach, the unintended harm of over-diagnosis and over-medicalisation, and why engagement, connection and doing more of what already works often matter more than labels or techniques. This conversation is grounding, challenging, and surprisingly hopeful with takeaways that apply just as much to adults as they do to kids.Read Kids These Days: https://www.kidsthesedaysbook.com/Stay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we're talking about something that so many people silently live with: high-functioning anxiety - that feeling of looking like you've got it all together on the outside, while inside you're paddling furiously just to keep afloat. I'm joined by Dr Lalitaa Suglani, psychologist and author, and we unpack why “high functioning” isn't the same as “fine” - and how perfectionism, people-pleasing and constant doing can be a way of keeping ourselves safe, even when it's slowly burning us out.In this conversation, Lalitaa shares the signs to look out for, how high-functioning anxiety differs from generalised anxiety, OCD and even overlaps with sensitivity and ADHD, and why so much of it comes back to self-worth, shame, and nervous system regulation. We also get into rejection sensitivity, attachment styles, and what healing actually looks like - not a sudden switch-off, but learning to come back to yourself with intention, boundaries, and self-trust.Find Lalitaa:Website: https://drlalitaa.com/Instagram: @dr.lalitaaOrder Her Book: https://drlalitaa.com/lalitaa/highfunctioninganxietyStay Connected with Hurt to Healing:Instagram: instagram.com/hurttohealingpodTikTok: tiktok.com/@hurttohealingpodLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hurt-to-healingSubstack: substack.com/@hurttohealingWebsite: hurttohealing.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.