Spinsterhood Reimagined

Send us a textOn today's Thursday's Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about the difference between thoughts and thinking, thanks to a book that Polly has been reading called 'Don't Believe Everything You Think' by Joseph Nguyen.We all have thoughts - between 60,000 and 70,000 each day - but we get to choose which of those thoughts we want to entertain into actual thinking, and which of those we don't.Polly and I talk about how we've both worked hard on our own thinking over the last few years. We also discuss some of the practical steps you can take in order to become more aware of what's going on between your ears, including getting into a wonderful ‘flow state' that gets us out of our thinking brain and into the present moment, and moving your body to shift your energetic state.We really hope you'll enjoy this conversation.Love,Polly & Lucy x Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textMy guest on the podcast today is the gorgeous Emma Duval. Emma is an author and illustrator whose first book, Unwed & Unbothered: The Defiant Lives of Single Women Throughout History, shines a light on the overlooked history of single women without kids, celebrating their lives, achievements, and legacies. Emma is also the founder of the first virtual museum dedicated to women without children, which can be viewed online at www.childfreehistory.com Emma herself is married, but she is childfree by choice, and during our conversation we talk, among other things, about what motivated her as a married woman to write a book all about single women. We also talk about how she has come up against serious pressure from her family about her choice not to have kids, and how she they don't even know about her book. Emma's book is full of such interesting stories of amazing women throughout history including Jane Austen, Florence Nightingale, the Beguines, and many, many more, and I know that you guys will find this episode so interesting.02:14 Guest Introduction: Emma Duval03:42 Emma's Journey and Inspirations04:52 Challenges and Pressures of Being ChildFree06:56 Writing 'Unwed and Unbothered'20:05 Online Communities and Support23:32 Historical Context of Single Women31:10 The Beguines Movement in Medieval Europe32:47 Chosen Families and Intentional Communities34:34 Margaretta Forten: An Unsung Heroine39:14 Prioritising Pursuits Other Than Marriage46:02 Women with Gumption: Stories of Defiance51:47 Illustrating History: Bringing Women to Life55:07 Final Thoughts and EncouragementBuy Emma's book: https://www.simonandschuster.co.uk/books/Unwed-Unbothered/Emma-Duval/9798881600037Buy the book: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/unwed-unbothered-the-defiant-lives-of-single-women-throughout-history-emma-duval/7892978Check out the first virtual museum dedicated to women without children, which Emma founded: http://www.childfreehistory.com/Follow Emma on Instagram: @MillennialEmma Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn Week 5 of my mini series ‘10 Weeks To A Joyful Christmas', I'm talking about how money, gifting and comparison can send us spiralling at this time of year — but they don't have to.Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn this week's Monday Motivation, Polly and I are talking about not waiting for the wake-up call before you begin living in a way that truly supports your wellbeing.We discuss how the simple choices you make every day shape your health, your energy and your sense of aliveness.And how change doesn't have to be dramatic - it can start with one small choice at a time.This is a gentle reminder that you don't have to reach burnout, a crisis or rock bottom to choose differently. You can start right now.

Send us a textIt's a solo episode from me this week which is actually a recording from a 3-Day webinar I did a few weeks ago. On Day 2, I talked all about one of my favourite topics — mindset — as well as some of my favourite mindset hacks. Now, I know I talk about mindset ALOT, but these are the kinds of things we need to be reminded of every damn day — myself included — otherwise we forget, we go unconscious, and we fall back into our old patterns. The things I'm talking about in this episode are essential when it comes to cultivating a more empowering mindset, and subsequently living a better life. They're things I've been learning about and practicing for five years, and honestly, they've changed my life for the better. So get comfy and have a listen to this episode, because when you shift your mindset, you shift your life. Enjoy!Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn Week 4 of my mini series ‘10 Weeks To A Joyful Christmas', I'm talking about your Connection Plan — curate your diary now with a few nourishing plans so December feels intentional, not overwhelming.Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn today's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about how long we allow ourselves to dwell on things that aren't serving us; in other words, where we're placing our attention.How often do you actually notice where your mind is at any given moment? And how often do you find yourself ruminating on something that isn't making you feel good? Perhaps you had an argument with a friend, or maybe you're worried about an email from your boss. Are you still thinking about it three days later?Polly and I talk about why it's so incredibly important to bring more awareness to our thoughts, and to consciously choose to shift our focus onto something else, rather than obsess over things that are completely out of our control.Of course we need to feel our feelings - and of course some things are much bigger and more serious than others - but in the day to day of life, how long do you tend to dwell on a conversation, event, or incident that is making you feel bad?We hope you'll find something useful in here.Love,Polly & Lucy xSupport the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn this week's episode of Thrive Solo, my guest is Rebekah Buege. Rebekah lives in Minnesota, USA, and while she works a corporate 9 - 5 job, she's also a body neutrality coach, a writer, and she posts all about her single life on TikTok and Instagram. In this conversation, Rebekah and I talk about pursuing life over relationships, the state of modern dating, overcoming societal pressures, and the liberating experience of changing her appearance with a short haircut. Rebekah emphasises the importance of living life fully without waiting for a partner, investing in friendships, and understanding one's own identity. She also discusses the benefits and challenges of single life, and how single life is often conflated with loneliness. The episode concludes with Rebecca's thoughts on how to thrive as a single person by living authentically and proactively.02:36 Rebekah's Life and Career04:23 Living in London07:30 Dating and Relationship Insights14:49 The State of Modern Dating18:29 The Impact of Technology on Relationships24:21 Personal Reflections on Single Life30:21 Embracing the Present Moment32:42 Challenging Societal Norms33:23 Practical Tips for Enjoying Singleness36:29 The Power of Personal Choices44:55 The Joys and Challenges of Single Life51:05 Debunking the Single and Lonely Myth56:02 Final Thoughts and FarewellSupport the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn Week 3 of my mini series ‘10 Weeks To A Joyful Christmas', I'm talking about habits and momentum — two months is plenty of time to make shit happen. Pick one tiny daily anchor and one small finish-by-New-Year goal, and let simple actions lead your mood.Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn this weeks Monday Motivation, Polly and I are sharing our thoughts about meditation.We're diving into what meditation really is - why it's not about ‘switching off your mind', and why meditation has been such a game changer for both of us.We also share some simple ways to start your own practice. Because meditation is a practice - the benefits feel subtle at first, but over time, they're absolutely life-changing.We hope you find something useful in here.Love, Polly & Lucy xSupport the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textMy guest on the podcast today is the wonderful Helen Taylor. Helen is 77 years old, a retired academic, and the author of Childless By Choice: The Meaning & Legacy Of A Childfree Life. It was absolutely fascinating to talk to a woman who went against the grain at a time when motherhood was not only expected, but really was seen as totally central to the lives of women. From a very young age, Helen decided not to have children, and in her new book she shares her reasons for choosing to remain childfree as well as the very complex feelings that have accompanied her choice. In our conversation, Helen tells me all about how her own mother's attitude towards motherhood impacted her choice to not have kids; we also talk about the issue of regret, we talk about how women without kids are still often seen as outliers, we talk about how families can come in all shapes and sizes, and Helen also shares her thoughts about the later stages of a child-free life. 02:15 Guest Introduction: Helen Taylor04:51 Helen's Early Life and Decision07:26 Impact of Societal Expectations11:39 Contraception and Abortion19:05 Challenging Family Pressures27:51 Redefining Family and Friendships30:45 The Legacy of a ChildFree Life31:08 Exploring Fulfillment Without Children35:13 Regret and the ChildFree Choice37:33 Grandparenting and Childcare Challenges39:33 Writing 'Childless by Choice'40:56 Reactions to the Book52:28 Alternative Families and Friendships54:16 Final Thoughts and Future Outlook57:54 Wrapping Up and How to ConnectBuy Helen's Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Childless-Choice-Meaning-Legacy-Childfree/dp/1917523300Check out Helen's website: https://www.helen-taylor.co.uk/Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn Week 2 of my mini series ‘10 Weeks To A Joyful Christmas', I'm talking about embracing autumn — soaking up the light, the cosy routines and solo joys, and deliberately looking for beauty instead of letting your brain spiral towards negativity around the upcoming festive season.Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn this week's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking all about the perils of social media…and screens in general.The global average daily time spent on social media is approximately 2.5 hours - shocking when you really think about it. And as we doom scroll through our feeds, it's worth noting that we aren't actually living our lives during that time - we're watching the lives of others.The truth is that social media is highly addictive, and it's up to us to bring awareness to our own consumption. So ask yourself: how much of your time and attention are you giving away to it? And how does a 60 minute scroll actually make you feel?We hope you'll find this conversation useful.Love,Polly & Lucy xSupport the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textMy guest on this week's episode of Thrive Solo is the wonderful Cindy Sheehan.In 2016, Cindy was a married Mum of four when she took a leave of absence from her office job in Colorado and joined two friends to go backpacking on The Kerry Way in Ireland. Little did she know at the time that that trip would be the beginning of a brand new life. By the end of 2017, she had quit both her job and her marriage to become a full-time traveller, and she has since travelled to nearly 50 countries. Cindy has settled in Palermo, Sicily for now, although who knows where life might take her next. Now while she lives a largely solo life, Cindy has a French, paraglider boyfriend — otherwise known as The Frenchman — who lives in France, and although the two of them spend more time apart than they do together, they meet when they can for travelling adventures. I know that you will love hearing all about Cindy's solo life and travels. In this conversation she shares her transformative experience of leaving a 30-year marriage to travel the world, settling temporarily in various countries, and eventually obtaining an EU passport through Italian ancestry. She talks about the unique relationship dynamics with her French partner, the challenges and rewards of solo travel, and the profound sense of freedom it brings. Tune in for inspirational stories, advice on overcoming fears, and a celebration of living a joyful, independent life.04:54 Cindy's Life Transformation11:47 The Decision to Leave a 30-Year Marriage14:35 Support from Family and Solo Travels17:03 Meeting the Frenchman: A Unique Relationship23:49 The Joys and Challenges of Solo Travel28:39 Making Connections While Traveling31:13 Multi-Generational Friendships32:11 The Joys of Solo Travel34:44 Memorable Travel Destinations36:40 Settling in Europe: Portugal and Sicily37:29 Navigating EU Residency and Citizenship44:39 Living in Palermo, Sicily48:29 Overcoming Solo Travel Fears54:07 Thriving Solo: Tips and Reflections57:23 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow Cindy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/postsfromaflashpacker/Check out Cindy's website: https://postsfromaflashpacker.com/Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn Week 1 of my mini series ‘10 Weeks To A Joyful Christmas', I'm talking about a Mindset Reset — reframing autumn-into-Christmas as a season you design (not a test), and choosing what you'll notice so the next ten weeks don't become a downhill slide.Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn this week's Thursday's Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about stillness.We explore what really happens when you pause — how your nervous system softens, your clarity returns, and life begins to feel a little more spacious again.But stillness isn't just about sitting cross-legged in silence. Sometimes it's a quiet walk without your headphones, where your mind finally gets a moment to be still.We also chat about how meditation doesn't just calm your mind — it's scientifically proven to boost your health and spark moments of real inspiration.The truth is, we only perceive a tiny slice of reality… and stillness helps us sense that there's so much more available to us — beyond what we can see, do, or measure.We hope you find something useful in here.Love Polly & Lucy xxSupport the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textMy guest on this week's episode is the absolutely fabulous Marianne Power.Marianne was on the podcast back in the summer of 2024, so I encourage you to go and listen to those episodes if you haven't already (I split them into 2 because we talked for so long!), and if you don't know who she is, then you need to. She is the author of the phenomenal book 'Love Me! One Woman's Search For A Different Kind Of Happy Ever After', which I urge you to read if you haven't already. She's also the author of 'Help Me!', as well as being a journalist. This conversation came off the back of a phone call that Marianne and I had several weeks ago where we talked about everything from how vulnerable it feels to put a book out into the world, to our very different experiences of sex in the past and in the present, to the wonderful things about being single and not having kids; and at the end of that chat we decided she needed to come back on the podcast to try out best to recreate our conversation for you! You're definitely going to want to listen the whole way through — trust me. We cover all manner of things from the vulnerability of writing personal stories, to the importance of connection, and the challenges and joys of navigating singlehood. This engaging conversation touches upon key themes like societal expectations, the need for self-validation, and the broader spectrum of relationships that can fill our lives with meaning and joy.04:50 Marianne's Journey and Book Insights10:36 Societal Expectations and Personal Validation28:14 The Importance of Connection36:22 Exploring Conscious Sexuality43:47 Finding Joy in Being Single43:56 The Importance of Touch and Connection44:47 Breaking Relationship Norms45:47 Discussing Our Books and Public Perception46:44 Marianne's Mortifying Festival Talk (that turned to be a roaring success)48:58 Overcoming Shame and Embracing Honesty53:23 Audience Reactions and Validation57:54 The Struggle of Public Vulnerability01:12:01 The Importance of Self-Validation01:13:50 Wrapping Up and Future PlansBuy Marianne's book, Love Me!: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Love-Me-womans-search-happy/dp/1529057884Sign up to Marianne's Substack: https://helpmenewsletter.substack.com/Follow Marianne on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marianne_power_writer/?hl=enSupport the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textToday is Part Six of a new mini series, 6 Steps To Move Out Of Fear & Into A Life You Love, which is all about the steps I myself have taken to change my life over the last five years. In Part 6, I'm talking about aligned action. Mindset is the foundation – but action builds the life you want. This episode brings all six steps together so you can take intentional, values-led action towards the future you deserve. Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn today's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about the importance of having fun.Fun is essential for living a good life, especially with everything that's going on in the world at the moment. But fun can look very different for everyone (Polly and I have very different ideas of what fun is!), and that's ok.Whether fun for you is a work 'away day' playing rounders in the park, or a quiet dinner with your bestie, it all matters. And we need to be intentional about incorporating more of it into our lives.We hope you'll find something useful in here!Love,Polly & Lucy x  Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textMy guest on the podcast today is the fabulous Krista St-Germain, a Master Certified Life Coach, single mum, grief expert, widow, and host of The Widowed Mom Podcast. When her husband was killed by a drunk driver in 2016, Krista's life was completely flipped upside down. And while it would have been easy to believe her best days were behind her, thankfully Krista discovered Life Coaching and Post Traumatic Growth and was able to move forward and create a future she could get excited about. Now she coaches and teaches other widows so they can love life again, too. Now although Krista works primarily with widowed mums, she is an expert in grief in general, and this conversation is no doubt interesting for anyone who has experienced grief, or is currently experiencing it, not to mention that we will all experience it at some point. Krista and I talk about the loss of her husband, Hugo, how she ended up getting into life coaching and subsequently grief coaching; we talk all about grief and how it is anything but linear, we also talk about post traumatic growth and how it is possible to take your experience of grief and use it to intentionally build a better life for yourself. You guys will all find something of value in this conversation.03:23 Krista's Journey Through Grief07:58 Understanding Grief: Beyond the Five Stages11:31 The Dual Process Model of Grief15:08 Grief in Childlessness and Secondary Losses21:16 Redefining Happiness and Self-Love29:58 Navigating Early Stages of Grief30:44 Societal Reactions to Grief32:32 The Loneliness of Grief36:31 Understanding Post-Traumatic Growth40:43 Personal Reflections on Grief and Healing43:49 Current Relationship Status and Reflections50:19 Final Thoughts and Advice for the GrievingCheck out Krista's website: https://www.coachingwithkrista.com/Listen to The Widowed Mom Podcast: https://www.coachingwithkrista.com/podcast/ Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textToday is Part Five of a new mini series, 6 Steps To Move Out Of Fear & Into A Life You Love, which is all about the steps I myself have taken to change my life over the last five years. In Part 5, I'm talking about fear, discomfort, and courage. Growth comes with a side of fear and discomfort – it's unavoidable. But courage is the bridge between where you are and where you want to be. Here's how to move forward with fear in the passenger seat. Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn today's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about making decisions.There is nothing worse than the pain of indecision. You go back and forth, driving yourself crazy by not deciding. And the truth is that you're never going to know if you've made the 'right' or 'wrong' decision until you've actually made it.In this conversation, Polly and I talk about our own experiences of decision making, how making decisions quickly is a skill, and why ultimately, whatever decision we make, we will always learn and grow. Plus, even if we make a so-called wrong decision, nothing is set in stone and we have to power to change things.As with so many things, fear is often what's holding us back from making a decision; but when we find the courage to move through the fear and take action, we move forward. Whereas indecision only keeps us standing still.We hope you'll find something useful in here!Love,Polly & Lucy xSupport the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textMy guest on the podcast this week is the completely wonderful Bibi Lynch.Bibi is a journalist, writer, broadcaster, podcaster and live event host. She's had columns in GQ, Red, New Woman and Grazia; written for most of the Nationals (currently the Guardian, The Independent, The Times and Metro); presented radio shows and interview series for BBC Radio London, BBC Radio Sussex and Soho Radio; co-hosted metro.co.uk's Good Sex Bad Sex pod and fronted the Let's Get Frank podcast — where she dated people called Frank. As well as her writing and broadcast work, she hosts panels and interviews — at Saatchi, The Hoxton, the Barbican and, with her Dirty Talk series, at the Groucho Club in Soho. She co-wrote Graham Norton's ITV late-nite comedy quiz, Carnal Knowledge; she created WHIPs (Women who are Hot, Intelligent and in their Prime – or Primark if times are tough); and HuffPost voted her one of the ‘50 Funniest Women on Twitter'. #RIP. (She is currently tracking the other 49 down.) She's a World Childless Week ambassador and a Storyhouse Childless contributor. In this conversation, Bibi and I delve into — among other things — the societal stigma associated with singlehood and childlessness, the grief that comes with not having children, the importance of community, reframing the societal narrative, hidden homelessness, and the vitriol that she has received off the back of her writing about childlessness. We also talk about Bibi's exciting future plans, the joy and fulfillment that can be found in embracing life's unexpected paths, and the power of shifting your mindset.04:24 Bibi's Background and Career06:49 The Challenges and Joys of Adult Friendships12:40 Aging and Confidence: WHIPs26:07 The Reality of Being Single and Childless42:05 Facing Grief and Public Scrutiny44:17 Unexpected Hate Mail45:31 Accusations of Misogyny46:38 The Struggles of Being Childless48:48 Hidden Homelessness and Resilience55:34 Finding Stability and Reframing Life57:56 Future Aspirations and Success Redefined01:07:19 Navigating the Dating World01:10:23 Final Thoughts and Words of WisdomFollow Bibi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bibilynch/?hl=enCheck out Bibi's website: https://bibilynch.com/Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textToday is Part Four of my new mini series, 6 Steps To Move Out Of Fear & Into A Life You Love, which is all about the steps I myself have taken to change my life over the last five years. In Part 4, I'm talking about reprogramming your beliefs. Your beliefs shape your reality – so if they don't match your vision, you'll keep getting the same old results. This episode shows you how to uncover and rewire the beliefs holding you back. Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn this week's Thursday's Thoughts, Polly and I are diving into the idea of taking up space, something so many of us women have been conditioned not to do.But the truth is shrinking doesn't serve us. When we apologise for existing, second-guess what we say, or dim our brilliance, we hide the very magic that makes us who we truly are.We talk about the subtle, everyday ways this “shrinking” shows up, and how we can start reclaiming our space with confidence and authenticity.We hope you find something useful in here.Love Polly & Lucy x Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textMy guest on the podcast today is the absolute force that is Angela Gentile. Angela is both single and childfree. She's an elder millennial, speaker, story teller, disruptor and the host of The Empowered Millennials Podcast. Angela has dedicated her life to helping single and childfree women find their community and empower them to live a life they love.In our conversation we discuss, among other things, the challenges and nuances of maintaining friendships, the financial realities of single life, and breaking away from societal norms to create a fulfilling, intentional, purposeful life. Angela also tells me about her The Single, Childfree Network, a community that supports women living similar lifestyles. 03:11 Angela's Journey: Loss and Transformation05:10 The Power of Dreaming and Self-Discovery08:20 Breaking Free from Societal Expectations10:50 Living Authentically: Challenges and Growth22:47 The Role of Anger in Self-Realisation30:54 Redefining Relationships and Self-Worth41:13 Choosing Not to Have Kids44:58 Finding Peace in Singlehood49:03 Financial Sacrifices and Autonomy56:13 Navigating Friendships01:04:24 The Single Child-Free Network01:12:46 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow Angela on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelagentileFollow Angela on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theangelagentileJoin The Single, Childfree Network: https://www.theangelagentile.com/scfnetwork Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textToday is Part Three of my new mini series, 6 Steps To Move Out Of Fear & Into A Life You Love, which is all about the steps I myself have taken to change my life over the last five years. In Part 3, I'm talking about deciding what you want. You can't get what you want if you don't know what it is. Here's how to get crystal clear on your vision so you can start moving towards it with purpose and confidence. Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn this week's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are diving into the topic of commitment. We chat about why committing can feel so hard sometimes, especially when it comes to the promises we quietly make to ourselves.  And we explore a few simple ways to start moving forward again, gently but meaningfully. Because it's often those small, consistent commitments that help you feel stronger, more grounded, and so much better in your own skin.Have a listen if you need a little nudge today — or if you're ready to trade the cycle of complaints for real change. We hope you find something useful in here.Love, Polly & Lucy x Support the showOrder my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn this episode of Thrive Solo, my guest is Majo Torreli, a single, childfree somatic coach based in Madrid, who shares her journey of overcoming unhealthy relationship patterns through somatic practices. We discuss the significance of connecting with our bodies, the role of somatics in cultivating self-worth and self-love, and practical strategies to manage anxieties in social and dating scenarios. Majo also provides insights into maintaining high vibrational energy and reclaiming agency over one's life, and she invites listeners to engage with somatic practices to transform their relationships and self-perception.03:45 Majo's Journey to Somatic Coaching07:56 Understanding Somatic Work10:21 Practical Somatic Techniques for Single Women18:29 Navigating New Relationships with Confidence25:54 Breaking Free from Bad Relationships34:38 Daily Practices for Groundedness and Self-Connection37:18 Empowering Single Women Through Somatic Practices38:27 Cultivating Pleasure and Sexual Energy44:17 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments47:27 The Power of Energy and Vibrational Frequency59:21 Understanding and Overcoming Anxious Attachment01:03:42 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGrab your FREE somatic session with Majo at: https://www.shesembodied.com/Follow Majo on TikTok & Instagram: @shesembodiedGet Majo's FREE Manifesting Guide: https://www.shesembodied.com/no-fluff-manifesting-for-the-smart-woman Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textToday is Part Two of my new mini series, 6 Steps To Move Out Of Fear & Into A Life You Love, which is all about the steps I myself have taken to change my life over the last five years. In Part 2, I'm talking about harnessing the power of your attention. Where your attention goes, your energy flows. This episode is all about taking back control of your focus so you stop wasting it on things that drain you – and start using it to create the life you actually want. Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textMy guest on the podcast today is the wonderful Dawn Llewellyn. Dr Dawn Llewellyn is Associate Professor of Religion and Gender at the University of Chester.  She researches and writes about gendered experiences and structures that are often silenced by patriarchal ideologies, and focuses on women's lives (inclusive) in contemporary Christianity and feminist spiritualities. Dawn herself is in a longterm relationship but she is childless by choice and has been researching, publishing, and speaking publicly about pronatalism, motherhood, and childlessness for over 13 years. She co-founded Storyhouse Childless which is a weekend long series of events at Storyhouse in Chester and she is part of the volunteer steering group that programmes the Festival — which, if you're listening to this episode the week it comes out, is happening this weekend — the 12th - 14th of September 2025 — and you can still get tickets if you fancy going, which you may well after hearing this conversation. Dawn and I talk about so many things, not least how religion, and how if your faith is a big part of your life, it can be incredibly challenging to navigate being a woman who has either chosen not to have have kids, to has ended up not having kids. I found it absolutely fascinating hearing from Dawn about the impact of religion on many women without kids as it's not something I've ever talked about on the podcast before. We also talk about the impact of pronatalism, we talk about the grief that so many women suffer around their childlessness, and Dawn also tells me all about the wonderful Storyhouse Childless festival which she pays such an important role in.03:28 Exploring Religion and Childlessness07:20 Personal Stories and Struggles15:28 Navigating Guilt and Stigma18:33 Dawn's Personal Journey27:43 Redefining Fulfillment and Success31:20 Introduction to Storyhouse Childless Festival31:45 The Inception and Growth of the Festival34:15 Festival Activities and Themes34:51 Diverse Experiences and Intersectionality36:56 Panel Discussions and Personal Stories42:36 Navigating Grief and Identity48:27 Support Systems and Coping Mechanisms57:02 Event Details and Final ThoughtsFind out more about Storyhouse Childless: https://www.storyhouse.com/seasons/storyhouse-childless/ Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textToday is Part One of a new mini series, 6 Steps To Move Out Of Fear & Into A Life You Love, which is all about the steps I myself have taken to change my life over the last five years. In Part 1, I'm talking all about awareness. Before you can change your life, you need to know what's actually going on in your mind. In this episode, I share how awareness is the essential first step to creating a life you love – and some simple ways to start building it today. Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn today's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about why we love getting up early, and how those quiet first hours set us up for the day.If you're someone who craves starting the day with calm, space, and intention, then a morning routine might just be your secret weapon. We explore why mornings matter, how it really all begins the night before with a good night's sleep, and why your routine has to fit your life, not the other way around.We share our own morning rituals plus simple tips to help you create a start to the day that feels nourishing, energising, and like the best possible version of your morning.We hope you'll find something of value in here.Love, Polly & Lucy x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn this week's episode of Thrive Solo, my guest is the wonderful Caroline Young, author of 'Single And Psycho: How Pop Culture Created The Unstable Single Woman.'Although single herself, Caroline is Mum to an almost-one-year old boy, whose father she co-parents and lives with.During our conversation, Caroline explores the societal and pop culture stereotypes of single women, sharing insights from her book and her personal experiences. We discuss characters from movies such as Fatal Attraction and Bridget Jones' Diary, and other shows that depict single women as unstable, crazy, or desperate. We also talk about the pressure women face regarding marriage and children, and the resilience required to break these stereotypes. Caroline also shares her journey of becoming a mother later in life and how this transition changed her societal visibility. 02:14 Guest Introduction: Caroline Young05:01 Caroline's Unique Family Dynamics06:43 Writing 'Single and Psycho'08:48 Exploring Pop Culture Stereotypes10:28 Relating to Pop Culture Characters19:22 Themes and Takeaways from her book27:51 Visibility and Perception Changes30:35 Struggles with Invisibility30:59 Rebecca Traister's Perspective on Marriage31:58 American vs. UK Views on Marriage34:14 Deciding to Try IVF Again34:41 Advice for Women Considering Solo Motherhood37:00 Enjoying Solo Motherhood38:53 Celebrating Single Women's Complexity and Resilience40:23 Backlash Against Single and Childless Women45:01 Caroline's Online Dating Experiences47:32 The Impact of Having a Baby on Her Thoughts Around Relationships48:37 Final Thoughts and Book Highlights53:24 Embracing Aging and Motherhood in Your Forties54:58 Conclusion and Contact Information Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn this fifth and final part of my Saturday Minisode mini series, The Truth About the Tough Bits: Navigating the Harder Side of Being Single & Childfree, I'm talking about what to do when the grief of being single and / or childless hits unexpectedly.Hope you enjoy it. x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn this week's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about a concept promoted by Dan Harris: Action Absorbs Anxiety.This is the idea that taking even the smallest of actions can help to reduce feelings of powerlessness and helplessness, by channelling that restless, stuck energy and shifting it onto something more productive.Polly and I also talk about another similar idea, which is that clarity comes from taking action - something that both of us have found to be true.We hope you'll find something of value in here.Love,Polly & Lucy x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn this week's episode of the Thrive Solo, I'm talking to the fabulous Emily Ball, a PR business owner who shares her journey of healing and self-discovery after leaving a toxic relationship. During our conversation, Emily recounts her experiences of dealing with emotional abuse, the steps she took to reclaim her life, and how she learned to embrace and love singlehood. Our discussion highlights the importance of self-worth, the joy of solo adventures, and the misconception that singlehood equates to being incomplete. We also delve into the societal pressures that push women towards traditional milestones and emphasise the significance of living a purpose-filled life on one's own terms. Emily also talks about the peace she has found as a single woman, recognising her own value, and taking control of her own happiness.02:14 Guest Introduction: Emily's Journey04:41 Emily's Toxic Relationship: The Beginning07:32 The Downward Spiral: Ignoring Red Flags11:05 Breaking Point: Realisation and Escape24:01 Healing and Self-Discovery29:08 Finding Peace in Singlehood37:42 Rebuilding: Self-Love and Growth43:38 Finding Peace in Solitude44:12 Redefining Success46:23 Questioning Life's Milestones48:15 Embracing Singlehood50:12 Choosing Not to Have Children53:14 Living Life on Your Own Terms01:03:40 Solo Travel Adventures01:14:13 The Joy of Self-DiscoverySubscribe to Emily's Substack:  Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn this fourth part of my new Saturday Minisode mini series, The Truth About the Tough Bits: Navigating the Harder Side of Being Single & Childfree, I'm talking about comparison, and those milestones that everybody else seems to be reaching.Hope you enjoy it. x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textThis week on Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are chatting about the filters we use to live our lives.Is your filter clouding your judgement? Is it colouring everything grey, making things seem worse than they really are? And how long are you willing to sit in that negativity?The thing is, when you change the lens through which you see the world, you get to choose one that lifts you, lightens you, and lets you see possibility instead of limitation.We explore some of the common filters we've had and how to shift them.We hope you find something useful in here.Love Polly & Lucy x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn this week's episode of Thrive Solo, my guest is Camille Natalie, a content creator and social media strategist who empowers women over 40 to celebrate the single life rather than simply tolerate it. At 44 and thriving solo in Miami Beach, she has built her brand, Camille Natalie, around the mission of showing women that being single isn't a consolation prize—it's a powerful choice. Through her authentic content and strategic social media approach, Camille helps women reframe their relationship with singlehood and discover the joy, freedom, and fulfillment that comes with designing life on their own terms.During our conversation, Camille shares her journey of embracing singlehood, cultivating self-love, and navigating adult friendships. We also discuss topics such as the societal pressures of marriage and children, the nuances of living a child-free life, solo dating, and finding joy in everyday moments. Camille also highlights the importance of self-validation and the freedom that comes with living on one's own terms.02:14 Guest Introduction: Meet Camille Natalie03:26 Camille's Background and Life in Miami07:55 Journey of Being Single11:57 Self-Validation and Personal Growth18:57 Friendship Challenges for Single Women25:56 Effort in Building Connections27:27 Connecting with Single Moms27:46 Expectations of Motherhood28:48 Marriage and Societal Pressure29:59 Embracing Child-Free Life33:57 Choosing Happiness and Joy43:55 Solo Dates and Self-Empowerment49:40 Final Thoughts and FarewellFollow Camille on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camillexnatalie/Follow Camille on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@camillexnatalieYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@camillexnatalie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camillexnatalie/ Instagram 1-on-1 Coaching Call: https://shop.beacons.ai/miamidatenite/iggrowthcall Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn this third part of my new Saturday Minisode mini series: The Truth About the Tough Bits: Navigating the Harder Side of Being Single & Childfree, I'm talking about future fears such as "What if I die alone?"Hope you enjoy it. x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn today's Thursday Thoughts, Polly & I are talking about people pleasing.We all do it - particularly women - but is it actually serving us? The need to belong and be liked often sees us doing or saying things that aren't in alignment with who we truly are.When we put the needs of others above our own, we often end up feeling resentful and depleted, which is no good for anyone!In this conversation, Polly and I give examples of how we've both been people pleasers in the past, but how we're now much more discerning about what we say yes to and - importantly - what we say no to.We hope you'll find something useful in here.Love,Polly & Lucy x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textMy guest on this week's episode of Thrive Solo is the totally fabulous Kerrie Finch, an entrepreneur, communications expert, and speaker living in Amsterdam. She is a hugely successful business woman, running the reputation-building company 'Also Known As' with her two partners in the United States. Kerrie shares her story from attending Manchester University to establishing her first company, The Finch Factor, and discusses her pivot towards her current business. She also delves into her personal journey, including her experience with various health issues not least a rare blood condition, a triple heart bypass, and endometrial cancer. Kerrie speaks candidly about being single, both by circumstance and subconscious choice, and emphasises the importance of having a supportive community. Throughout our conversation, Kerrie provides insights into what it takes to succeed as a female entrepreneur and thrive solo, irrespective of relationship status. 00:57 Kerry Finch's Journey: From Manchester to Amsterdam03:01 Building a Reputation: The Birth of Finch Factor06:09 Entrepreneurial Insights: Challenges and Triumphs15:19 The Power of Community and Live Events18:51 Introducing 'Also Known As'21:57 Navigating Single Life: Choices and Circumstances33:37 Embracing the Power of Saying No34:37 Finding Joy in Solitude35:33 The Freedom of Solo Travel36:19 The Reality of Being Single38:59 Facing Serious Illness Alone42:33 The Impact of Health Challenges50:02 The Importance of Community Support55:39 Thriving Solo: Final ThoughtsFollow Kerrie on LinkedIn: Kerrie FinchFollow Kerrie on Instagram: @thefinchfactorFollow Kerrie's speaking account on Instagram: @kerriefinchspeaks Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn this second part of my new Saturday Minisode mini series: The Truth About the Tough Bits: Navigating the Harder Side of Being Single & Childfree, I'm talking about feeling invisible.Hope you enjoy it. x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn today's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about how it's not the big dramatic changes that transform your life…it's the small habits.

Send us a textMy guest on this week's episode is the completely gorgeous Jordan Emily Rose, a blogger, influencer, travel and fashion content creator.Jordan shares her journey from discovering blogging to becoming a successful influencer across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. She discusses her entry into the field, the challenges of visibility and online criticism, and her experiences dealing with mental health issues. Jordan also reflects on societal pressures related to relationships, the rise of single women, and the evolving stigma around independent women. She talks about the importance of retaining independence within relationships, as well as her forthcoming fiction book about an enchanted library in 1950s London. Throughout our conversation, Jordan emphasises the significance of self-improvement and not settling in both personal and romantic endeavours.00:54 Journey to Becoming a Lifestyle and Fashion Blogger03:33 Challenges of Visibility and Mental Health10:28 The Realities of Content Creation19:27 Thoughts on Singlehood and Relationships30:40 The Importance of Self-Relationship31:59 Personal Experiences and Self-Esteem34:45 The Value of Being Single36:59 Men and Emotional Maturity39:53 Healthy Masculinity and Media Influence48:31 Maintaining Independence in Relationships52:07 Choosing a Child-Free Life55:41 Final Thoughts and Future PlansFollow Jordan on Instagram: @hellomissjordanFollow her on TikTok: @hellomissjordanFollow Jordan's author account on Instagram: @jordanroseauthorCheck out her blog: https://www.hellomissjordan.com/p/a-bit-about-me.html Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOver the next few weeks, I'm diving into the truth about some of the tougher bits of being single and childfree in this new Saturday Minisode mini series: The Truth About the Tough Bits: Navigating the Harder Side of Being Single & Childfree.Today, I'm talking about loneliness vs. solitude. Hope you enjoy it. x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn this week's Thursday Thoughts, Polly and I are talking about NSDR - Non Sleep Deep Rest.Similar to meditation or breathwork, NSDR can help take us out of our monkey minds and bring us back into our bodies. It helps take us out of our sympathetic nervous system, and into our parasympathetic nervous system - our ‘rest and digest' state.So many of us are in a state of stress and anxiety far more than we should be, and a short NSDR practice can make a huge difference.Polly has three different NSDR recordings available on her website which you can access by clicking on this link https://www.pollywarren.com/offers/TDoFGvUjWe hope this conversation was helpful!Love,Polly & Lucy x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textIn this week's episode, my guest is the fabulous Naomi Holbrook, the 'Unconventional Weight Loss Coach'. Naomi shares her transformative journey from battling weight issues and personal trauma to becoming an empowered individual at 50. Naomi delves into her early struggles with unhealthy eating habits, stemming from childhood difficulties, and how she overcame them to lose five stone and reclaim her health through sustainable lifestyle changes. She also discusses the importance of self-love, navigating adulthood while being single and child-free, and finding personal fulfillment. Naomi emphasises the crucial role of intuition, stress management, and the SMART method in achieving overall well-being. Tune in to learn about Naomi's empowering approach to midlife and the wisdom she has gained along her extraordinary path.00:34 Naomi's Personal Journey with Food and Health07:25 The Unconventional Weight Loss Coach11:29 Understanding Stress and Weight Gain14:39 Reprogramming Neural Pathways19:20 The Importance of Nutrition and Hydration25:41 The SMART Method for Holistic Health36:49 Naomi's Single and Child-Free Life41:00 Embracing Wholeness and Purpose42:08 The Importance of Direction and Fulfillment44:50 Facing Triggers and Finding Purpose46:43 Creating a Life You Don't Need to Escape From48:35 Taking Personal Responsibility51:17 The Power of Intuition and Energy58:19 Embracing Midlife and Aging Gracefully01:07:28 Living Life on Your Own TermsWebsite: www.theunconventionalweightlosscoach.com

Send us a textIn this final part of my mini series about the underrated benefits of being single and childfree, I'm talking about learning and personal growth.Hope you enjoy it. x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!

Send us a textOn this week's Thursday's Thoughts, Polly and I are talking all things holidays.I've just come back from a wonderful two-week break in Turkey — and yes, it was wonderful.But we're also diving into something a little deeper… What does it mean if the only time you feel truly relaxed, calm or happy is when you're away?Holidays are a beautiful reset, a chance to switch off, change the scenery, and reconnect, but the real magic? It lies in creating a life you don't constantly need a break from. Because ultimately, aren't we all just searching for more calm, joy, and lightness in our everyday lives?So the question becomes: how can we bring more of that holiday feeling home with us?We hope you find something helpful in here.Love,Polly & Lucy x Support the showPre-Order my book, SHINY HAPPY SINGLES (UK) / THRIVE SOLO (US & Canada) at: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/book Download my FREE PDF 'The Top 10 Answers To The Most Irritating Questions That Single People Get Asked On The Regular...& How To (Devilishly) Respond'? Go to: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/questions Join the waitlist for my membership, Thrive Solo: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/thrivesolo Check out my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thrivesolowithlucymeggeson Interested in my 1-1 Coaching? Work with me HERE: https://www.lucymeggeson.com/workwithme Join my private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1870817913309222/?ref=share Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thrivesolowithlucymeggeson/ Email me: lucy@lucymeggeson.com And thank you so much for listening!