Quiet Connections

Are you following your own path, or the one you thought you ought to take? What difference could it make redirecting your energy and attention to the people who 'get you'? What does it mean to Trust the Process?Stacie explores all this and more with our final guest of Season 2! Who just so happens to be a previous lecturer from Stacie's time at University... textile artist & designer, Becky Dodman-Wainwright.Whilst Becky speaks through insight gained from her artistic projects and direction in her life, there is so much in this episode that applies to any one of us and the many areas of each of our lives.We'll be back in the Winter with Season 3, and we're already looking forward sharing with you the the guests you'll get to meet then!In the meantime, be sure to subscribe to the channel, so that you'll be first to know when the new season starts, and help us reach more people who need to know they're not alone when feeling socially anxious, by leaving us a review.Find out more about Quiet Connections & how we can support you by visiting QuietConnections.co.ukSee you soon!About our GuestBecky Dodman-WainwrightTextiles Designer & BA Textiles Lecturerlinktr.ee/BeckydodmanwainwrightWith a passion for fashion and interiors, Becky Dodman (now Becky Dodman Wainwright) is a multi-disciplinary textile artist and designer. Having worked for over a decade in the textile industry and as a lecturer at Plymouth College of Art, the Devon born designer is creating from a diverse heritage of Chinese and Colombian influence. Becky's adventurous approach to her methods, incorporate a personable and collaborative style at her core. Taking traditional methods of tufting, tapestry and knit, Becky transforms these methods which result in her instantly recognisable, fun and vibrant contemporary artworks.Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Hayley and Stacie explore the emotional rollercoaster that we experience when we take on a new challenge that evokes anxiety within us. Together, we'll explore: The Ping Pong contemplation stage that occurs before the decision to take on a new challenge is made; The Freak Out that can happen once we commit and how this can show up (cue the Panic Monster, Porky Pig and Snappy Croc!); The 'Aftermath' shame spiral that can happen once we have taken action. You'll be diving into Stacie's recent experience of taking on a new challenge in joining the Bluetits Chill Swimmers to learn ways to manage these uncomfortable stages in the decision-making and comfort zone stretching process.  Stacie reveals the mistakes that she made and how you can take a gentle comfort zone stretch process to work your way up to achieving your big stretch goal, without sending yourself into a panic! To find out more about the Socially Anxious to Quietly Confident programme mentioned in the episode, go to: quietconnections.co.uk/servicesSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

What if your panic was organic? What if struggling to say the things you want to say, means you could actually be on the edge of a Word Wise Spiral?What does it mean to be 'Calm-fident'? And what if we're all learning how to navigate and steer the wheel along a winding road with limitations and obstacles to look out for, and perhaps sometimes oversteering just a little bit too much? Sounds interesting right? It is! In this episode, Stacie explores this and more with Origins of Life researcher, and pioneering Pyschoproctologist, Jeremy Sherman, PHD.Shy until his mid-30s, Jeremy has his own story to share around how he overcame being tongued-tied and feeling anxious. Moving from “What's wrong with me?” to asking the fundamental question of “What's up with us humans?”. Jeremy was truly fascinating to chat with, and we're sure this episode will leave you with some intriguing questions and thoughts to explore and consider for yourself! About our GuestJeremy Sherman, PHDResearcher & Psychoproctologistwww.JeremySherman.comJeremy Sherman, PhD is a cradle-to-grave science researcher and writer studying the unbroken chain from the origins of life from chemistry to humankind's grave situation today. He's the author of the Columbia University Press book Neither Ghost Nor Machine: The emergence and nature of selves but also 1000 articles with 9 million readers for Psychology Today on everyday practicalities, including how to deal with Total Jerks. For 25 years, he has been a close research collaborator with Harvard/Berkeley neuroscientist Terrence Deacon. His latest book is called "What's up with Assholes? Advanced psychoproctology for beginners. Sherman's all about making advanced ideas intuitive, practical, and funny, because from a natural science perspective because the human condition is pretty ironic. Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

You're going to get so much from this insightful episode of the Quiet Connections Podcast if you're struggling with either setting and keeping your boundaries; people pleasing and putting other people before yourself (and perhaps even feeling resentful); someone bullying or refusing to speak with you; and difficulties self-regulating to keep yourself out of fight, flight, freeze mode.Dr Suzanne Henwood joins us to explore the topics of boundaries, bullying and self-regulating - so that you can have those courageous conversations to maintain your boundaries when you need to. In this episode, you'll discover new perspectives on people pleasing and 'dumb compassion'; feeling emotionally safe and flexing and maintaining boundaries. Suzanne clearly explains how we 'fall down the ladder' from being regulated, calm and balanced, to feeling fighty, flighty or freezey. What's more, throughout this episode, Suzanne offers some helpful ways to gently bring yourself out of the fight-flight-freeze state that we can experience when our boundaries are crossed, or we feel unsafe, or we're experiencing social anxiety, and into a more balanced place where we can connect with integrity and uphold our boundaries when we need to. It's an absolute joy to introduce you to Suzanne Henwood. About our GuestDr Suzanne Henwood is a stress and anxiety coach; one of only 2 Master Trainers and Master Coaches in mBIT globally, and an NLP Trainer who works closely with ANLP (the Association of NLP) and is the International Ambassador for ANLP in New Zealand. With a PhD in professional development, she has worked in higher education and development for 25 years and has authored numerous books, book chapters and articles, with a particular interest in stress, communication, leadership and personal and professional development to improve and transform practice, supporting people to operate from a place of excellence. You can find out more about Suzanne at: http://mbraining4success.comSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

What can we learn about hope from a cheerleader living with multiple rare & chronic illnesses? A lot it would seem! In this episode Stacie and Barby, discuss how to find hope when things feel bad, and the importance of getting to know who we are. Through Barby's inspiring story of life-changing events, we'll explore how to help cultivate and hold on to hope even in our darkest moments.Barby also shares with us a practical exercise that has been a crucial tool within her journey, that will help you to appreciate all that you are - which we hope you will try.If you've ever felt hopeless, then this beautifully light hearted and uplifting chatepisode is for you…About Our GuestBarby IngleAuthor & Cheerleader of Hopewww.barbyingle.comBarby Ingle is a best-selling author, reality personality, and lives with multiple rare and chronic diseases. She is a chronic pain educator, patient advocate, and president of the International Pain Foundation. Barby started out as a Cheerleader & Dance trainer, since no longer being able to physically cheer, she now uses all the skills and spirit of her cheerleading past to inspire hope in peoples lives, when they most need it.Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Welcome to a fascinating conversation with Lara Hayward that'll touch on aligning our careers with our values and who we are; championing our quieter personalities at work; celebrating motherhood as a high performance role; the natural world's ability to shape how we feel about ourselves; and the ripple effect of world-class athletes speaking out and prioritising their mental health over expectations.As an ex-lawyer involved in the NHS and Olympic and Paralympic Sport, and now a Career Coach at Oxford University and a Blue Health Coach, Lara is one of those people with a career that will make you think, wow she must be super confident so I'm thrilled that Lara is sharing her behind-the-scenes story and her insights with us in this episode. You may have already met Lara if you attended one of her career workshops this summer - and if not I'll be sharing a link to these at the end so stayed tuned for that!About Our GuestLara Hayward Career Coach & Blue Health Coachwww.larahayward.com  I started my career as a litigation lawyer, a role which required me to put on an extrovert mask and be loud and fighty every day.  Although the work could be interesting, pretending to be someone else was exhausting – and this led me to full-on burnout, anxiety and a lot of unsettling soul searching.  After taking some time out to finally listen to that quieter voice in my head, I went back to study English and retrain as a career coach at Oxford University, where I am now the strategic lead for Creative Careers & Sustainability. I'm now in a working environment that celebrates difference and have the confidence and strength to do all of those things that, as a lawyer, were too scary to do. Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

In this episode we're joined by Neuro Coach, EFT Therapist and Author of Happy, Joyous and Free: Love Your Life, No Matter What, Melanie Yates.We discuss how Emotional Freedom Tapping could help ease social anxiety through neutralising the pain in the emotions that can keep us stuck; such as fear, anxiety, and unworthiness.You'll learn what EFT is, how it works, and Mel even shares a free tapping taster session  at 24 mins - so be sure to stick around for that.About Our Guest:Melanie YatesNeuro Coach, EFT Therapist, Authorhappyjoyousandfree.orgMelanie delivers a wealth of techniques that open the mind to see the power of thoughts. Learn secrets that bring powerful thoughts and ideas together to allow you more joy and fulfillment. It's time to get out of the bondage of your mind and into the freedom that you have always wanted. For the free gift from Mel mentioned in this episode, please visit CoachMelanieFreeGift.comSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

In this episode we are joined by Body Image Coach, Claudine Nightingill-Rane from Seascape Blue Coaching. We'll be exploring the link between body image and self-worth and why loving your body might not feel achievable or be the best goal for you, and (good news!)  it doesn't have to be, as Claudine explains. We'll be diving into what confidence is, and isn't; talking about things that can get in the way and how our confidence levels can fluctuate in different areas of our lives - and Claudine shares her own valuable experiences and lessons here. As Blue Health Coaches, we touch on the ripple effect of spending ‘blue mind' time in, on or near water, and also how overcoming a challenge such as embracing cold water swimming can have a profound impact on the way you feel about yourself and how you show up in your life. Claudine also offers you a wonderful body kindness meditation as a free gift at the end of this episode, which I hope you'll download after listening. About Our Guest:Claudine Nightingill-RaneBody Image and Blue Health Coachseascapeblue.co.ukClaudine is a body image and blue health coach, helping those who identify as women make peace with their bodies and change their mindset not their appearance, using the healing power of blue spaces (natural water).  I had a difficult relationship with my body, and my quiet disposition for years, and discovering it didn't have to be this way opened my eyes to a liberating perspective on my body and on myself.  I managed to shift my mindset, I started to respect my body for what it could do, I started sea swimming all through the year, and the sum of these parts meant I knew I could do anything I put my mind to, the blocks were created by me, so could be smashed by me. I am a life coach, NLP practitioner and hypnotherapist, specialising in body image, and Blue Health, combining my two passions; the power of the ocean in healing, and the importance of accepting ourselves as we are: mind, body and soul. Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Do you currently believe that extroversion is equal to confidence? Do you think that confidence is something others ‘just have', and you don't? Do you fear trying something new, in case it isn't perfect, or it goes wrong, or it might not come to fruition?Well, get comfy, because in this episode Stacie is joined by Business Coach and Community Leader, Katrina Widener, who has a wealth of wisdom to share with you!Together they bust some of the myths that surround introversion/extroversion & confidence . Explore how to fail greatly, and why failure, and confidence are skills that we can all learn.To claim your Free Gifts please visit Quiet Connections.co.uk/free-giftsAbout our GuestKATRINA WIDENERKatrina Widener is a business coach, podcast host, and community leader, who helps badass entrepreneurs get lit up in business through her custom group coaching community. Website: katrinawidener.comInstagram: @katrina.widenerFacebook: Katrina Widener CoachingLinkedIn - Katrina WidenerSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

As someone with experience of social anxiety, and who trained as a counsellor and set up a business as a confidence coach, KT LaPorta has a wealth of personal and professional experience and approaches for dealing with anxiety to share with you, wherever you are in your journey from socially anxious to quietly confident. Join us for a conversation about the harsh inner critic, the 'shoulds' and 'ought-tos' we hear in our heads, and feeling stuck in the mud in your attempts to overcome anxiety. We'll be talking about the importance of your words and honouring your nature; why we need to search for the right fit when we're seeking help for anxiety; and what it is that inspired KT LaPorta to be brave in her life - and we think this story will inspire you too. About Our GuestAt KT Coaching, KT LaPorta works with women in their 20's and 30's who struggle with confidence and getting their inner critic voice to be quiet. She teaches them how to stop cycles of negativity and redirect anxious thoughts so they can learn to trust themselves and have the confidence they've always wanted. KT has a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and uses her experience on both sides of the therapist chair in her 1:1 coaching program. If she isn't coaching she can be found at home sewing or buying more fabric to feed her sewing habit! Get more info about her and her program at her website, www.coachingwithkt.com Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Do you often feel like you overstretch yourself? Taking on more than what you can actually manage? And when somebody asks you for help, you instantly say yes, because to say no leaves you feeling wrecked with guilt. Perhaps you struggle with boundaries? Unsure of where your responsibilities end and another person's begins?Has this left you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, stressed, unmotivated and maybe like you just don't care anymore? Then stay tuned, because you may be experiencing, what's known as burnout.In this episode. Stacie is joined by the lovely, Ioana Patale, who's going to guide you through what burnout actually is and how to recognise its early warning signs. What underlying forces are driving the behaviours which lead to burnout in the first place, and most importantly, what do you need to know and do to help heal it. About our GuestIOANA PATALEIoana is a Burnout Coach working with overwhelmed mid-level executives and managers who want to become again the compassionate, respected, and efficient leaders they are meant to be. She's been through burnout herself, several times, and only managed to escape the vicious burnout cycle when she got to its roots. Ioana now uses awareness-based coaching to help her clients identify the roots of their burnout and find the personalised solutions that best fit them and their loved ones. Website: ioanapatale.comInstagram: instagram.com/ioanapatale_burnoutguideFacebook: facebook.com/IoanaPataleBurnoutGuideSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Want to know more about attachment styles? Do you feel anxious in your relationships? Perhaps you see unhealthy patterns repeating in relationship after relationship? Or maybe you find yourself unintentionally sabotaging your relationships in a push-pull dance of connection and you're worried you're going to be alone?If any of this sounds like your experience, this podcast episode is for you. We're joined by Robyn Michon, a Relationship Anxiety Coach who's here to share her own experiences of dating and relationships, and realising that something has to change within her; talk us through the anxious, avoidant and secure attachment styles, and also share ways that you can stop yourself from repeating unhealthy cycles of conflict and avoidance within your relationship. Plus, she offers you permission to go after what you want regardless of the messages we get from society! Robyn is an absolute joy to listen to and you're going to get so much out of this wonderful conversation. About our Guest:ROBYN MICHONRobyn is a Relationship Anxiety Coach helping smart, successful people figure out what they are doing wrong in relationships so that you can feel more Confident, more Secure, and more Loved. Connect with Robyn Michon here: Website: robynmichon.comInstagram: instagram.com/relationshipanxietycoachFacebook: facebook.com/robynmichoncoachingSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Do you feel like you're not good enough at work? Do your insecurities hold you back from taking opportunities? Or perhaps you're worried about keeping up as the world returns to some form of normality after a pandemic? In this episode, we'll be exploring imposter syndrome in your career, social anxiety and emerging from pandemic restrictions as the world begins to open up again. Our Special Guest is Grace Sodzi, Social Entrepreneur, Wellbeing Facilitator and CEO of Paper Arts CIC where she supports other young creatives to establish careers. Grace shares with you what she's learned about social anxiety and overcoming imposterism in your career, and she also discusses challenges and helpful tips for emerging from lockdowns and pandemic restrictions as the world begins to open up again after the Covid-19 disruption. This is a delightful conversation with a heart-centred entrepreneur and a leader. Grace shows us that we can all overcome the fear of not being good enough and our fears do not have to hold us back in life… About our Guest:GRACE SODZIGrace is CEO of PAPER Arts CIC based in Bristol. The organisation supports young creatives between the ages of 18 and 30 to establish careers. She has a degree in Business and Entrepreneurship and set up a social enterprise aged 18 to raise awareness of the importance of mental health after suffering from anxiety and depression throughout her teenage years. She is currently co-designing a new alumni network service with young creatives in Bristol. She strongly believes in doing what you love for a living. Connect with Grace Sodzi at: Website: paperarts.org.ukInstagram: instagram.com/paperartscicFacebook: facebook.com/PAPERCICSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

As a quieter person (or someone wearing an extroverted mask), we're often told that 'quiet' equals 'not enough' and we carry this sense of lack within us; hiding ourselves away in one form or another, believing that there is something wrong with who we are and that we don't fit in. We're living in a culture where loving our quietness feels rebellious. But all we really want is to be able to show up confidently as our true selves in life, and to feel a sense of belonging. This is the story of 5 inspiring women, who are walking the path from social anxiety to quiet confidence. Amanda, Rose, Lizzie, Esther and Julia share with you how they’re overcoming the feeling of not being good enough and changing their tendencies to hide themselves away. They talk about the ways in which they're shifting the belief that they are broken and unworthy; exploring the strengths of their quieter qualities and practicing their ability to express themselves with others. They discuss coping strategies they’ve used for managing anxiety and how they have been redefining what it means to be quiet as part of a community of people on the same path. If you would like to join these women and find a place where you belong too, you can join the Quiet Community at quietconnections.co.uk/community. This is the last in the first series of the Quiet Connections podcast. We'll be back in the Summer with new guests and topics and insights! If you have an idea of something you'd like us to discuss or someone you'd like us to interview, please let us know by emailing us at hello@quietconnections.co.uk. If you'd like to join our community and take advantage of the free workshops that we're running, or you want to find out more about how you can get involved, go to quietconnections.co.uk for more information. Thanks for listening! Please stay connected :) Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Have you ever felt as though you are the only one struggling? Thought that you’ll never be able to hold a conversation, easily make friends, assert yourself, or say the things you want to? Have you ever cried because you’ve felt broken?This weeks episode guest, Kyle Mitchell, has been exactly where you are now. Growing up hearing things like “Oh he doesn’t like to talk, he’s really shy”, Kyle thought this was the way life was going to be, this is who he is, and there was no changing that. Nowadays, Kyle has a different story to tell about himself!Stacie and Kyle explore how setting yourself small challenges helps to rewire the brain to ease the anxieties experienced in social situations, how to embrace your perceived flaws, shift your focus away from perfectionistic outcomes, and learn to love yourself, so that you too, can go from feeling socially anxious, to socially confident. Just like Kyle did.Get your Free Workbook How to Get More Calm & Confident in Social Situations: A Quiet Person’s Guide to Gently Stretching Your Comfort Zone at Your Own PaceDownload here: www.quietconnections.co.uk/workbookAbout our GuestKyle Mitchell is a mental health speaker, podcaster, advocate, and social media influencer. With lived experience of social anxiety, Kyle is passionate about helping others overcome their social anxiety. Kyle is a member of NAMI Louisville (National Alliance of Mental Illnesses)  and is a certified Ending the Silence Speaker for NAMI where he goes into schools to openly discuss mental health and social anxiety with vulnerability. www.socialanxietykyle.com Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Do you struggle to get your words out? Feel yourself freeze when someone speaks to you? Do your words seem to get stuck in your throat? In this fascinating episode, we explore the relationship between social anxiety and selective mutism - a severe response to anxiety. We answer that dreaded question “why don’t you talk?” And you’ll discover how your behaviour might be helping to keep someone ‘stuck’ in their cycle of silence and fear -including how praise may actually reduce the likelihood of someone speaking up again. You’ll also hear about why ‘shy’ isn’t a helpful word to use to describe quieter children. You’ll learn about other ways that this fear response can show up that you might not have considered, and how you should respond if a child is using ‘silly talk’, animal noises, or a voice that isn’t their own - and why they might be doing this. Chelsea also demonstrates how very important it is to take a comfort zone stretch approach to overcoming selective mutism and anxiety as she explains what helped her to move through selective mutism to becoming a podcast host. About our GuestChelsea Gamache is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She was diagnosed with Selective Mutism at age five and is passionate about sharing her experience, raising awareness and helping others who are struggling with Selective Mutism and anxiety. Chelsea hosts ‘Outloud the Selective Mutism Podcast’ with her mom and recently wrote a children's book about Selective Mutism called 'I Am Brave'. https://outloudsm.comSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Do you keep a lot of feelings bottled up inside of you? Or find it hard to express and release them in ways that feel good? Movement could be the key.In this episode, Stacie chats with dance and yoga instructor, Elaine Macey, about how mindfully moving the body can help us safely tune in, connect with, and shift our emotions, our thoughts, our breath, and our authentic selves, so that we can take more aligned action each day.About out GuestCo-Founder of 4Motion CIC and the 4Motion Online Community. Elaine has extensive experience and a passion for inclusive dance, yoga, fitness and community events. She thrives on teaching, delivering training and facilitating experiences that spark creative ways of moving, learning and engaging with people and nature. Elaine manages the 4Motion Education and Community Programmes, delivers CPD and INSET training for school teachers, teaches our Flow Yoga and SUPYoga classes, manages and delivers our 4Motion Retreats, and works with our wonderful 4Motion Youth Ambassadors to run community projects, performances and youth training. www.4motioncic.comSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Did you know that there is a 1 in 5 chance that you're a Highly Sensitive Person? Not sure what that means? Well then you'll want to tune in and find out! Perhaps you have been told that you’re “too sensitive” or “too emotional or caring” in your life and you feel like there’s something wrong with you. Maybe you struggle in situations that other people appear to manage with ease. Perhaps you take on the feelings of others or maybe you're highly intuitive. Being a Highly Sensitive Person is about more than just your emotions. In this episode, you’ll find out why it’s so important to understand high sensitivity, what makes us highly sensitive, how this affects us and, in turn how we, as highly sensitive people, have special gifts to share with the world. We are joined by Diane O’Shea for a conversation about being a Highly Sensitive Person, recognising what you need and how to design a life that works for you. You'll hear how Diane struggled in a life with a high-stress job, family pressures and thoughts that she was 'a disaster' and should be coping better than she is, before coming across the work of Elaine Aron and discovering that she is a Highly Sensitive Person and turning her life around to suit her own needs - working with her high sensitivity rather than against it. About out GuestDiane O'Shea is a Highly Sensitive Person living in Oceanside, California with her dog SunnyD and puppy Bobo, who doubles as her Social Committee Manager. Diane is a certified Life & Business coach helping other Highly Sensitive People design the life of their dreams. www.luminarylifecoaching.comSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Have you ever felt like you've lost your confidence or you don't have a sense of purpose in life? Feel like you're a burden and don't fit in? Have you wanted to hide yourself away because you can't easily do the things that you think you should be able to do? Claire Whitehouse felt this way when she had a Stroke and was told she wouldn't walk again at the age of 19. Once an active perfectionist, she began to experience social anxiety and isolation and struggled with her thoughts and emotions. But Claire tells us that her disability has opened her eyes to her true abilities.Here she shares her story with us and explores some of the tools and thoughts that helped her to maintain a 'have a go' mindset that allowed her to embrace imperfection and failure and shift her perspective to what's important in life; which eventually led Claire to defy the neurologists' predications and get back to running, and also discover a sense of purpose and greater confidence and connection in life. Claire is talking primarily about her experience of stroke here, but as you know, many of the emotions and difficulties that Claire faced are similar for any of us who are going through an experience that makes us feel inadequate and different to others. So join us on Claire's inspiring journey and consider what you can take away from her experience that can helpfully shift your thinking too. ABOUT OUR GUESTClaire Whitehouse is a Stroke Survivor and also a Support Coordinator for Dorset Stroke Association where she facilitates peer support groups and provides individual support for other stroke survivors and their carers. In 2010, 19-year-old Claire had two disabling strokes that transformed her life. She felt isolated by her wheelchair and existence. She became socially anxious, and lost her sense of worth and self-confidence. But, five years on, Claire became properly informed about the way that her mind was working and how this was impacting her mental health. She no longer felt it was her fault, but a case of self-management and understanding.With acceptance, Claire recreated herself through mindfulness, meditation, music, animal therapy, healthy living, and nature. Claire says “my disability showed me my true abilities” as she readapted and tried new hobbies like Stand-Up Paddle boarding. Each leap, mistake and failure reframed as lessons to build on her learning, confidence and wisdom.Now life is full of purpose while working for Stroke Association as a Dorset Coordinator supporting others in a similar place. Claire is proud of the person she has became. She tells us that, there may be stumbling blocks on the road but with determination, encouragement, and self-belief, we can find a way through them. Claire no longer allows her disability to define her, because only you can define yourself. Claire also shares her story and inspirations through her ‘Hope for Stroke’ pages on Facebook and Instagram to help others who need reassurance and encouragement. [Stroke Association: www.stroke.org.uk Hope for Stroke: www.facebook.com/hopeforstroke2]Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Are you full of self-hate, critical thinking and doubt? Do you more easily extend compassion and kindness to others, but struggle to offer it to yourself?In this episode, Stacie and quiet community member, Julia, chat with TedX speaker, Amanda Winwood, about the process of re-learning how to love and accept ourselves. We explore some of the challenges that many of us experience when it comes to practising self-compassion, and the small steps that you can start taking today to help move you away from putting yourself down, and move towards lifting yourself up.So why not make yourself comfortable with a blanket and tea, whilst you listen to this inspiring conversation.ABOUT OUR GUESTAmanda Winwood, CEO (and Queen of Hugs) Made for Life Organics and Founder of the Made for Life FoundationFrom the heart of Cornwall, Amanda has pioneered ethical and organic skincare and wellness for over 18 years. A former Hotelier and Tourism Operator with 38 years’ experience, Amanda and her team have trained over 2000 therapists in spas across the UK to confidently open their doors to people with mental health issues and also those going through cancer. Made for Life Organics was the first UK Spa brand to receive BCorp certification. Amanda is a Reiki Master, Therapist and teacher of Mindfulness. She lives in Spain and Cornwall.https://www.madeforlifeorganics.com/Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Did you know that you can create a personalised toolkit for yourself to help with managing anxiety and achieving what you want to in life? In this episode, we hear about many of the learnt techniques that Phil Williams has within, what he calls, his Wellbeing Toolkit, which he practises on a regular basis and accesses when he needs to calm anxieties, and feel more confident within himself. Techniques that include NLP strategies, Breathwork, Neuro Nidra, Transcendental Meditation, being out in Nature, and recently having trained as a Blue Health Coach alongside Hayley with Lizzi Larbalestier (Going Coastal Blue).Let's hear about his 'Sampling' method for finding what might work for you in building your very own wellbeing toolkit.ABOUT OUR GUESTPhil Williams - Blue Health CoachPhil is an NLP Practitioner and a Blue Health Coach, interested in breathwork ever since hearing about the Buteyko breathing method (which is primarily a treatment for asthma) some 6 years ago. Since then he has learnt various breathing techniques & completed a fundamentals course in The Wim Hof Method. The exercises he has learnt have not only helped in reducing my anxiety.Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Do you find yourself avoiding relationships? Or maybe self-sabotaging? Silencing yourself? Or are you a people pleaser feeling like you just can’t be yourself? We explore all of this and more in today’s episode with Relationship Coach, Jerry Souter. This conversation will make you think about what you really want in your relationships and at the end you’ll take away Jerry’s key tips for creating that loving connection that you deserve. ABOUT OUR GUESTJerry Souter - Relationship CoachJerry Souter is a certified Sex, Love & Relationship coach specialising in women’s empowerment and conscious dating. She uses a blend of coaching and trauma-informed embodiment practices to help women uncover the root causes of unhealthy relationship patterns, do the deep work to feel worthy of the relationships they deserve, and find the confidence to go after them. She works with women who are either single or already partnered up, but not quite blissfully happy in their relationship. http://jerrysouter.comSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

What is the power of nature? And what impact does it have on our physical, mental and emotional health? Join Stacie and Hayley as they explore how spending time outdoors helped nature enthusiast, Ellie Smart, through social anxiety, and reconnect with her innate worth and purposefulness.We dive into our connection with nature, how it helps shift our physiology and opens us up to new perspectives, creates meaning and purpose, and the science of Blue Health and Blue Health Coaching; a new coaching approach developed by our good friend and professional trainer, Lizzi Larbalestier (Going Coastal Blue).ABOUT OUR GUESTEllie Smart - Nature Photographer & Quiet Connections Community Engagement ManagerEllie Smart is a Cornish wildlife and nature enthusiast and photographer, currently studying Conservation and Ecology. Ellie had been labelled as ‘shy’ from a young age and found it hard to talk to people or share ideas, incase what she wanted to say was 'wrong'. Photography became a form of self-expression, communicating with others, telling stories, and helping nature. Ellie believes that nature has a powerful way of connecting us to ourselves and the ecosystem, helping us to ease anxiety, loneliness and depression, and increase our self-worth and sense of purpose. @eco_ellie_Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Do you feel unhappy with your appearance? You're not alone. Body dissatisfaction is an issue that affects a real majority of people today. So many of us believe that we need to change the way that we look in order to feel happy and be accepted. Throughout our lives, we can give an enormous amount of time, money and attention to our desire to change our appearance, sometimes even taking massive health risks. But does it work? And what else could be going on? Body Confidence Coach, Stephenie Farrell joins Hayley in this episode to help us understand why this phenomenon occurs, and how you can begin to feel more confident about your body, just the way it is.Look out for a Quiet Connections workshop from Stephenie Farrell coming very soon! Like us on Facebook or sign up to our newsletter here to be the first to know more: http://quietconnections.co.uk/newsABOUT OUR GUESTStephenie Farrell, DSHom., Med., Hons.,CBP, EFTi - Body Confidence CoachAs a Body Confidence Coach, Stephenie’s goal is to help women accept theirbodies, end emotional eating, and make peace with food. She’s a Certified Intuitive Eating Counsellor, Emotional Freedom Techniques Practitioner, Matrix Reimprinting Practitioner, Emotional Success Coach, iRest Informed Yoga Nidra Instructor, Trauma-sensitive Yoga Instructor, and received her certifications in Homeopathy, Bowen and Reflexology. Stephenie is a published author and has written for Vista, Alive, and Viva magazines. She’s hosted for EFT Radio Online (LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE, Creating Wealth & Prosperity, and Clarity. Power. Results. The Natural Health Influencer Podcast) and is a sought-after workshop facilitator and speaker. www.stepheniefarrell.comSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

When you think of a woman who founded a successful global company, what do you see?Now add presenting at conferences, delivering training workshops and working with high-profile organisations. You probably picture a person full of extroverted confidence, who must never struggle to speak, network, or feel doubtful, don’t you?It’s easy for us to assume that others don’t experience the same anxieties that we do. And for us to believe we’re less capable than they are. Or for us to strive for success based on what we are told it is meant to look like (even if it’s not what we actually want, or suits who we are).In this episode, Introverted Entrepreneur, Fiona Campbell-Howes shares why it's important for you to redefine success on your own terms, work to your introverted strengths, care for your wellbeing in the workplace (as an employer, employee or business owner), and to seek out support when you need it. I’d like to offer a warm thank you to quiet volunteer and community member, Julia, for her comfort zone stretch in reaching out to Fiona and leading this interview. Well done! To watch Julia's interview with Stacie on perfectionism, please download the Quiet Connections App.Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Do you have an idea that you're putting off trying because of self-doubt and anxiety? It's not easy to ignore the voice in our heads that tells us we're "not confident enough" or "capable enough" and "can't do it". Or that our ideas "aren't good enough" and "won't get taken seriously" and we'll be "criticised and laughed at". If we let it, this can stop us from even beginning to explore our ideas and finding out what really is possible. And who knows... your idea could change someone's life or give you the income and lifestyle that you want (or both!)In this episode, Hayley and Stacie are joined by special guest Sally Jones from the School for Social Entrepreneurs and will be sharing what we have all learned in our own journeys and from working with other people like you who are bringing their ideas to life right now. You'll discover that feeling anxious and self-doubting doesn't have to hold you back. You'll be invited to take the pressure off of yourself and allow yourself to simply explore an idea and see where it goes; and you'll find out that people just like you can be successful - and that means you can too! ABOUT OUR GUESTSally Jones, Learning Manager at School for Social Entrepreneurs Hi, I'm Sally. I'm a Learning Manager with School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE) in Cornwall. I co-designed and co-deliver the Springboard programme supporting people with a passion or a seed of an idea to flourish. I am also a Forest School Leader working with adults and children across Cornwall. I have lived experience of the restorative power of nature, taking time to explore the natural world and create using natural materials which helps me to manage my own anxiety. The-SSE.org/schools/cornwallSupport the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Do you ever worry that you’re ‘too quiet’ in class? Pray that a lecturer won’t pick you to answer the question in front of everyone? Die a little inside when you hear that word… “PRESENTATION”? Perhaps feel concerned about making friends? Or what your peers will think of you?It can feel hard attending college when we feel this way. Believing that we’ll never be as confident as those around us. We know. Because we experienced this too. And if you’re anything like the way myself and Hayley were, then I bet you feel like you’re alone in your struggles (we certainly did!).The truth is though, feeling panicked in social and performance situations, like those you face on a daily basis at college, is far more common than you might initially think! In fact, at least 12% of students are experiencing generalised social anxiety, and nearly 50% of students experience fear in specific performance situations, such as delivering a presentation. That’s a lot of you.So what can you do about it?In this episode, Hayley and Stacie discuss the challenges we faced whilst at college. Where to seek further support. And we share some simple steps to help you feel more calm, courageous and confident with speaking up and being yourself!ABOUT YOUR HOSTSHayley Stanton, Founding Director & Coach at Quiet ConnectionsHi, I’m Hayley. I was the red-faced one that didn’t speak. I would do anything to avoid being the centre of attention, or even talking to someone, because I believed that I was broken, not good enough & didn’t fit in. Drowning in self-hate, I was too afraid try something new or connect with someone for fear of criticism & rejection… until I learned that panic & awkwardness isn't WHO you are, it’s just HOW you have learned to be; which means that you can change. You just need the puzzle pieces.Stacie Clark, Director, Community Co-ordinator & Coach at Quiet ConnectionsHello I’m Stacie! I was the girl who awkwardly fumbled over half-formed sentences or blurted out “I don’t know” to avoid attention. I felt scared to show up as I truly was out of fear of not being accepted or liked. I struggled to scramble together 1 good thing to say about myself & I thought that I had nothing to offer. I now know this isn’t true. We all have wonderful qualities within us - waiting to be expressed. That includes you. Together, let’s find your own quiet ways to let them shine.Find our more at: quietconnections.co.ukWith thanks to Quiet Community Member, Rose Burch, for providing the voiceover on the Intro and Outro, and to The National Lottery Community Fund for supporting our work. Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Do you feel as though you are keeping your true self hidden? Like there is more within you, that you feel unable to express in front of others? Do you feel like you're not interesting and have nothing to share?When we feel anxious in social situations we often keep ourselves small in an attempt to avoid attention or possible judgment. We may start to perceive ourselves as boring or uninteresting, feel self-hating, and loose sight of all the richness we have to offer.If this sounds like you right now, then join Stacie and our guest, Counselling Therapist and Expressive Arts Educator, Shelley Klammer, as they discuss how using expressive art practises such as collage, drawing, painting, and free-form writing can help to re-direct us back towards self-acceptance and rediscovering how interesting we truly are - so that we can show up, as our authentic selves more easily around others. For the episode show notes, please go to QuietConnections.co.uk/podcastABOUT OUR GUESTShelley Klammer, Counselling Therapist & Expressive Arts EducatorShelley offers expressive arts e-courses from beginner to advanced levels that support the self-expression of original thought, authentic emotions and intuitive insight. Shelley aims to compassionately support you to heal your “unfinished emotional business” from the past through expressive art and writing in a strength-focused and depth-oriented way. She has developed and presented many therapeutic art programs over the years to various populations including incarcerated youth, and adults with acquired brain injuries and developmental disabilities. Shelley maintains three online sharing portals that promote the healing benefits of the expressive arts. Creative Healing Stories is a sharing portal that celebrates the therapeutic power of the expressive arts as they support the transformation of emotional pain into personal purpose. Art Programs Around the World celebrates grassroots expressive arts facilitation efforts around the world. Creative Process Portal is place for artists to share how their creative process supports self-awareness, emotional healing, and soul connection. www.expressiveartworkshops.comWith thanks to Quiet Community Member, Rose Burch, for providing the voiceover on the Intro and Outro, and to The National Lottery Community Fund for supporting our work. Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Are you an overwhelmed parent? Or do you have a child with big emotions? 1 in 5 people are highly sensitive, meaning you might be more easily overwhelmed or triggered, or experience emotions more intensely than for other people. If you're a highly sensitive person or you think your child might be, then join special guest Natalie Brunswick, who is a mum, occupational therapist and a psychotherapist, who helps parents who are highly sensitive themselves or who have highly sensitive children. We're diving into what it means to be highly sensitive, how we can deal with overwhelm as a parent, what might be going on for both a child and us when their behaviour is challenging, how we might begin to respond differently, and most importantly, this conversation is full of so much reassurance for you as a parent. You don't want to miss it. For the episode show notes, please go to QuietConnections.co.uk/podcastABOUT OUR GUESTNatalie Brunswick, occupational therapist and psychotherapist Natalie is the highly sensitive mamma behind the Motherhood Map, a modern maternal mental health, wellness & parenting resource here to help you feel more empowered, connected, supported & inspired on your motherhood journey. Natalie Brunswick is an occupational therapist and psychotherapist who provides treatment to individuals experiencing a range of difficulties including depression, anxiety/stress, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions. She approaches her work in a holistic and eclectic manner, one that incorporates curiosity, creativity and collaborative evidence-based practice, to foster meaningful and lasting change for individuals of all ages.Natalie completed her Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy at the University of Toronto and her Honours Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at York University. She has additional clinical training and experience in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MCBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and vocational counselling. Natalie is registered with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario and is a current member of the Ontario Society of Occupational Therapists.With thanks to Quiet Community Member, Rose Burch, for providing the voiceover on the Intro and Outro, and to The National Lottery Community Fund for supporting our work. Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Are you feeling like you're not good enough? Do you find yourself criticising yourself for being 'too much' of something or 'not enough' in some way? If you're struggling with negative thoughts about yourself then you need to listen to the wise words of Wellbeing Coach, Vicky Otter, who joins Hayley in today's episode to explore the nature of thought. You'll find out why your thoughts aren't true and ways to gently let those thoughts pass to allow new insights and possibilities to emerge. A beautiful conversation full of many insights with the potential to shift the way you think about yourself, too. For the episode show notes, please go to QuietConnections.co.uk/podcastABOUT OUR GUESTVicky Otter, Wellbeing CoachVicky’s personal wellbeing journey began with a belief that she just wasn’t good enough. This drove her to keep working harder and being nicer in order to gain the approval she thought she needed from others to feel good enough. Eventually, Vicky saw that she was already complete and whole; she didn’t need fixing –and just because she thought something didn’t make it true. Vicky trained as a coach whilst working as a teacher and began using coaching with children in her classes to draw out the potential within them, helping them to see that they already have the confidence and resilience they need inside of them. Vicky offers coaching for children and adults and brings people together for confidence and resilience courses in nature settings. www.innateconnection.org.uk With thanks to Quiet Community Member, Rose Burch, for providing the voiceover on the Intro and Outro, and to The National Lottery Community Fund for supporting our work. Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Do you struggle to quiet your mind? Often feel unclear or overwhelmed with worry? Need time to reflect on how you feel or what you want to say in challenging situations?Then join writer and wellbeing workshop facilitator, Emily Wheeler as she discusses with Stacie, the benefits of writing for our wellbeing, and as a self-care practise.You'll hear how writing can help you to calm your thoughts, gain clarity and express your needs, so you can feel more relaxed and confident. This lighthearted conversation is full of quick tips and wonderful suggestions, so you can get started with mindfully writing, today - you'll be amazed at the insights writing can bring up from within you!For the episode show notes, please go to QuietConnections.co.uk/podcastABOUT OUR GUESTEmily Wheeler, Wellbeing Writing FacilitatorHi I'm Emily! I use writing, journaling and our connection to the coast and blue spaces to practice valuable self-care techniques, empowering women to feel confident and content in everyday life. With wellbeing and positive living at its heart, Strength In Feathers CIC has a vibrant online community as well as local meet-ups, workshops and retreats in Falmouth, Cornwall. StrengthInFeathers.comWith thanks to Quiet Community Member, Rose Burch, for providing the voiceover on the Intro and Outro, and to The National Lottery Community Fund for supporting our work. Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Ever wondered where the anxiety you feel in social situations came from? What we’re talking about today is often a missing puzzle piece in the journey from socially anxious to quietly confident. But it’s a key piece that you need right at the start of your journey, because it’s the foundation of the belief that you can change -that you have the ability to create change for yourself. This is important because the majority of us can’t pinpoint an event that first triggered those feelings of social anxiety and avoidance within us, and this can lead us to believing that it’s just who we are. We can end up feeling like we’re broken; thinking we’re the only one struggling with this; and believing that we can't make a change. But that's not the truth. So dive right in with us to discover why ‘how you are’ is not actually ‘who you are’... For the episode show notes, please go to QuietConnections.co.uk/podcastABOUT YOUR HOSTSHayley Stanton, Founding Director & Coach at Quiet ConnectionsHi, I’m Hayley. I was the red-faced one that didn’t speak. I would do anything to avoid being the centre of attention, or even talking to someone, because I believed that I was broken, not good enough & didn’t fit in. Drowning in self-hate, I was too afraid try something new or connect with someone for fear of criticism & rejection… until I learned that panic & awkwardness isn't WHO you are, it’s just HOW you have learned to be; which means that you can change. You just need the puzzle pieces.Stacie Clark, Director, Community Co-ordinator & Coach at Quiet ConnectionsHello I’m Stacie! I was the girl who awkwardly fumbled over half-formed sentences or blurted out “I don’t know” to avoid attention. I felt scared to show up as I truly was out of fear of not being accepted or liked. I struggled to scramble together 1 good thing to say about myself & I thought that I had nothing to offer. I now know this isn’t true. We all have wonderful qualities within us - waiting to be expressed. That includes you. Together, let’s find your own quiet ways to let them shine.Find our more at: quietconnections.co.ukWith thanks to Quiet Community Member, Rose Burch, for providing the voiceover on the Intro and Outro, and to The National Lottery Community Fund for supporting our work. Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)

Welcome to the Quiet Connections Podcast with Hayley and Stacie. The Quiet Connections Podcast explores the journey from socially anxious to quietly confident and everything in between. You may be experiencing panic attacks, social anxiety, or simply a feeling that you’re “too quiet” and “not good enough”. You're avoiding the good things in all areas of life, and when avoidance isn't an option, you find you get stuck in people pleasing and perfectionism. In this first episode, you’ll be getting to know us and hearing our stories, much of which we’re sure you’ll relate to! You’ll begin to collect some of the key puzzle pieces that have helped us, and the people we have worked with, to move beyond anxiety and avoidance. You’ll find out about the three-step model that we use to support people at Quiet Connections as you explore with us what it takes to grow your confidence so you can finally speak up, join in and feel like you belong.For the episode show notes, please go to QuietConnections.co.uk/podcastABOUT YOUR HOSTSHayley Stanton, Founding Director & Coach at Quiet ConnectionsHi, I’m Hayley. I was the red-faced one that didn’t speak. I would do anything to avoid being the centre of attention, or even talking to someone, because I believed that I was broken, not good enough & didn’t fit in. Drowning in self-hate, I was too afraid try something new or connect with someone for fear of criticism & rejection… until I learned that panic & awkwardness isn't WHO you are, it’s just HOW you have learned to be; which means that you can change. You just need the puzzle pieces.Stacie Clark, Director, Community Co-ordinator & Coach at Quiet ConnectionsHello I’m Stacie! I was the girl who awkwardly fumbled over half-formed sentences or blurted out “I don’t know” to avoid attention. I felt scared to show up as I truly was out of fear of not being accepted or liked. I struggled to scramble together 1 good thing to say about myself & I thought that I had nothing to offer. I now know this isn’t true. We all have wonderful qualities within us - waiting to be expressed. That includes you. Together, let’s find your own quiet ways to let them shine.Find our more at: quietconnections.co.ukWith thanks to Quiet Community Member, Rose Burch, for providing the voiceover on the Intro and Outro, and to The National Lottery Community Fund for supporting our work. Support the show (https://www.kindlink.com/fundraising/quiet-connections-cic/podcast)