Wee Stories With People

The way we heal pain is not by transmitting, it's about transforming it.This podcast was a dream to record. It was one of those conversations that leave you feeling uplifted for ages afterwards.We talked about a range of different topics from:-James's trans experience, including when he first knew and how people in his life reacted & the person who really gave him an opportunity to feel supported during that confusing & challenging time-The relatively small issue of gender neutral bathrooms and the more important issues that need to be discussed around support for talking therapy and medical care-We are more than one label-The joy and love that shines through from the LGBTQIA community-Mental health and the seasons of life & depression-Leaning in to your genuine, authentic self on social media-Inclusive sex education in schools and how that can better support LGBTQIA young people-Creating open and safe spaces for LGBTQIA young people to have conversations in schools and youth groups across Scotland-The lack of LGBTQIA role models in leadership potentials and how much of difference it would make for young people in Scotland-Being a lighthouse for people you love when they need support back to shore-Politics and the lack of representation and lived experience & so much more

Burnout is something I have wanted to talk about on the podcast for a long time. It seems to be a pattern that I can look back on in my life. I tend to go ALL in on things. From casual creative hobbies, to work, to exercise, to supporting people in my life, I go all in, usually balancing all of these things at the same time. Burnout:-What is burnout? The definitions and symptoms- Vilius and I share our different experiences of burnout -Burnout being different from chronic fatigue or depression, but can have very similar symptoms-Compassion fatigue wow! It is a thing. To all my empaths out there, we can get drained from emotionally investing energy into others.-Toxic positivity-The “grind” our society perpetuates the idea of grinding and then some of us, I would include myself in this category, just go all-in on things until we reach a stage of burnout.Finding balance:-We share our experiences-& Practices we try and have tried to find more balance Good Shit: We share a podcast/book/thing we have been enjoying recently- inspired by The Self-Helpless Podcast Vilius and I usually have different experiences and views on things, and it was great to explore burnout and balance in an open and honest way.  Some links we mentioned:https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00284/fullhttps://www.positive.news/society/positive-news-stories-from-week-27-of-2021/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4911781/https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/mental-health-in-the-workplace/202008/burnout-is-real-the-rise-and-retractable

To celebrate Wee Stories With People being 1 year old I have put together a few short videos from each guest that I had on the podcast. ✨

Part 2 of the wonderful episode with Aldo

Part 1:In this first half Aldo talks about growing up in Scotland, the impact of our environment on the paths we take in life, living in Mexico with his wife and child this last year during the pandemia, boxing, creativity and more.I LOVE how Aldo describes creativity in all things. It was a real privilege to connect and talk with Aldo and I'm excited to collaborate on things in the future. We have lots of similarities and it felt so lovely to chat through so many things.Part 2 coming next week.

This was one of my favourite episodes, although I already knew parts of Boabs journey, the way he describes his experiences and connects it to:-growing up in Scotland, young team culture -generational trauma -accents, values, class -addiction & recovery-AA/CA 12 step journey -male mental health-describing the values and principles of stoicism, shout out to Boab's podcast Scottish Stoics-hiking & cold water therapy -psychedelics- my favourite part where Boab describes his revelation on mushrooms “I've goat it now, I understand”Near the end of the podcast, Boab talks more about his recovery journey, including describing his experience of cold water therapy and hiking the Munro's. Boab gives a wee shout out Max Kolbe recovery group “a mental health peer to peer support group” created out of the need for connection and community- named after St Maximilian Kolbe Patron of Addiction Recovery. The community continues to expand, offering free weekly boot camps and hikes up Ben A'an/ cold water dips. I went along with Boab last Saturday, such a lovely group of people. It's so cool to know groups like this exists in Scotland right now, bringing people together, connecting them with nature and being active for free. P.S. I just re listened to a section, as always it's such a embarrassing experience hearing my voice back and seeing that I got fired up as I always do when I talk about injustice and inequality. 

This week is mental health awareness week, and coincidentally, Vilius and I recorded a podcast about mental health & impact on the people who care about us... Trigger warning: we discuss our subjective perspectives of mental health, including suicidal ideation, panic attacks, situational depression, eating disorders, seasonal affective disorder etc. If you feel like these topics may make you feel worse rather than better, maybe give this episode a wee skip until you are ready. P.S. this is not a podcast discussing severe mental illness- i.e., cognitive impairment- where the treatment and discussion would be completely different.  I have wanted to record this podcast for a long time. I finally feel ready to hear Vilius's truth without guilt or defensiveness bubbling up inside me.It is wonderful that we are opening up about how we feel globally. The stigma around mental health/illness is slowly but surely breaking away. We still have a long way to go, especially around severe mental illness - i.e. Schizophrenia and treatment but things are in a much better place in comparison to even just five years ago. However, one thing I think is sometimes missing from the conversation is the impact on the people around the person who is struggling with their mental health. How does depression impact the people who are around the person? How does a partner, friend, or family member feel when they are helpless seeing someone they love to suffer?As I describe in this episode, I felt guilt and shame for along time after my first period of deep depression. I felt guilty that Vilius had to go through it too. The pain of seeing someone you care about so much go through such a challenging time, the helplessness you feel because you can't do anything to elevate or change how they feel and the energy impact - how does being around someone who feels low impact your mental state?! I wanted to have an open and honest conversation with Vilius about his experience of the time I was depressed. How did it impact him? how did he feel and how does he feel now? I think I share the story of that time more than I thought I would in this episode, however, I still love hearing our different perspectives of the same time and think it is really important. If you or someone you love is struggling with their mental health, know that you are not alone. When you are in the sticky dark mud of depression and despair, it is soooooo challenging to hear that it will get better, you will feel the brightness again, you will be able to appreciate your existence and have hope again. “Sometimes you have to lose yourself to FIND yourself”. 

I am so excited to share this episode, I was so excited when Peter said yes to come on the podcast. Peter has been my favourite Scottish crime author since I started really getting into reading.  Peter has sold over more than 4 million copies of his books worldwide. He is best known for his acclaimed “Lewis Trilogy“, set in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland.His books have been a lovely companion in many different stages of my life, from living in Orkney to studying for my masters in England. His books reminded me of home, even though many of them are set out with Scotland, there is something familiar about them, they have wee cultural nods to Scotland. This conversation was wide-ranging. Like all of my conversations. We talked about I could believe how quickly time went by. I remember looking at the clock for the first time before I asked the last question and was sooo surprised it was over 1hr 30mins. • Peters history and life experiences • The lack of Scottish writer role models when Peter was a young aspiring author• The change wonderful change in Scottish literature over the last few years- more Scottish authors sharing their lived experience • The impact of writing/art on mental health and well-being: from understanding yourself and processing emotions to having a creative space to share your ideas• The challenges Peter faced getting his books published. • The impact of that adversity and how it motivated and pushed Peter on to become an accomplished author... "his career advisor at school laughed when he shared he wanted to be a writer" picture Glasgow in the 70s... Wonderful stories• The difference of life when an author is promoting and touring a book vs writing a book • Peters creative process and how he sets up his life/day when he writes• He also describes art and creativity in such an important way that like it could be a promotional clip for the government to pour more money into supporting creativity for mental health and well-being... which is happening, but society sometimes underestimates the true impact of creativity on the writer and the reader/ the person and the audience of the art• The impact of London representing the UK and the push back authors had authors used and still have getting books that represent the Scottish culture especially the accent/language• Publishing houses wanting "mainstream" stories that they though would sell more to larger audiences, instead of unique stories...which impacted aspiring authors in a significant way, from lack of role models etc • The importance in self-belief • The balance between hard work and magic in the creative process- i.e. showing up and allowing the ideas to comeI hope you enjoy this episode and go on to read a few of Peter May's books. A have many, so send me a wee message if you want a borrow. My top three The Critic, The Runner, and the Black House... they are all amazing though in my subjective opinion. 

There is lots of debate, misconceptions, and judgement around multi-level marketing. Especially during the pandemic where people have become involved in multi-level marketing companies out of desperation to make money to get by. This podcast was inspired by an article Vilius read last week. We had talked about multi-level marketing at length in the past, and mostly had a negative opinion of it. We kind of had a broad brush stoke perception that all companies that work in that way were unethical or somehow exploitative on some level. Or at least I did. This was a wonderful podcast to record. We examine multi-level marketing from all angles and having a three-way discussion where we all have different ideas and perspectives was so awesome.The main things we cover are:-Alex shares his experience and background of working with Isagenix: a multi-level marketing company. The personal development he has achieved from working with the business.-What multi-level marketing is and the main difference between a pyramid scheme and multi-level marketing.-The pros and cons of multi-level marketing -The diversity of culture and approaches of each multi-level marketing business -Nutrition and supplements -The impact of passion and discipline on reaching goals-How accents and your appearance impacts your chances of succeeding in many multi-level marketing, commission-based jobs-"Meritocracy", Inequality,  and the impact on your opportunity's in life, with a  wee shout out to Boris Johnson-&  much more Thank you so much again to Alex for being so honest, open, and kind with his time. His approach to each question was thoughtful and not defensive. You have now reached the next stage in your hippea.oils ambassador programme.  Welcome. You now have to recruit 200 people by the end of next month to graduate from the scheme. Haha.I really enjoyed hearing both Vilius's and Alex's thoughts and I really loved how varied our conversation was and how we ended up talking about some of my favorite subjects, nutrition, passion, and inequality.

I am so excited to share this episode with Amy. Amy is an inspirational, kind, and thoughtful young woman and I am so happy she wanted to share some of her story on the podcast.In this conversation, Amy shared her experiences of living with autism and we discuss the misconception around autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Amy shares her life-changing experiences of grief and loss, we explore mental health and mental illness, bullying, coping mechanisms and tips for stress management, sleeping patterns, body image, the impact of creativity and writing on Amy's mental health and so much more. Amy also shared a wonderful analogy about autism and the way she thinks her brain works and the differences we have in relation to what our strengths and weakness are. This is around the second half of our conversation, and it includes open and closed doors, I won't spoil it anymore but it is wonderful!!Amy is really keen to share her experiences to support and help anyone else who has gone through similar struggles. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I did.Thank you so much Paul Shields for editing and producing this episode and  Vilius Kateiva for adding the music and intro #techgenuis'sMusic played: Stephen Wake, The Old Copperplate

Wooohoo, finally had time to sit down and record a podcast...In this episode, Vilius and I talk about:-our experiences of lockdown- the positive things that have happened over the last year-mindfulness, answering some of our wake up/ wind down https://open.spotify.com/show/7pqSBiqn7j1SNh3ZXn3Vqf?si=ILRQrmF2SjCuaV-NHJm1bQ-we touch on negative visualisation & moreThank you for listening and for your support. It has been so lovely to receive messages to say that the podcast had a tiny, yet valuable impact on your life.

In this episode, Matt and I talk about politics. Matt is the co-host of the Rebel City podcast. They discuss politics regularly on the podcast in a really engaging way - breaking down the way in which politics impacts many different social issues and our overall experience of the world.  I have always felt that politics and the way politics is discussed is overcomplicated, exclusive, and somewhat unrelatable to many people. Yet politicians and the policies they create and implement impact every aspect of our lives. So, I asked Matt to come on and share his experiences and break-down some of the over-complicated ideas. We share our experiences of politics; the first time you were introduced to politics and what our attitudes were at that point. We touch on UK and US politicsWe touch on the traditional ways in which politics and politicians operate- perpetuating an out-of-date and unrelatable systemWe talk about power and the ways in which it corrupts politicsWe touch on the power of local and community level council- and how we believe that empowering communities to enable them to make needs-led decisions for themselves is the way forwardLastly, we touch on compassion for politicians - the fine balance between keeping politicians accountable and holding them to their word but also being compassionate when they are doing the best they can- mostly I was thinking about the wonderful Nicola Surgeon.Thank you so much again to Matt for sharing his time and insights.Some great Rebel City episodes:1.  Rebel City Podcast - Episode #96 - Aidan Martinhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2nXI4145Lk&t=3390s&ab_channel=RebelCityPodcast2. Rebel City Podcast - Episode #70 - Graeme Armstronghttps://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=c0seSe5Uo78&ab_channel=RebelCityPodcast3. Rebel City Podcast - Episode #93 - Douglas Stuarthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2pjYmM7lFo&ab_channel=RebelCityPodcast4. Rebel City Podcast - Episode #94 - Kieran Burns - All About Abilityhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_cF1TjzfaM&ab_channel=RebelCityPodcastMatt also writes blog posts for the Rebel City pod, here are some really good posts related to this podcast:1.You Don't Live in a Democracy (Part 1) https://therebelcityblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/26/you-dont-live-in-a-democracy/2.You Don't Live in a Democracy (Part 2) https://therebelcityblog.wordpress.com/2019/09/03/you-dont-live-in-a-democracy-part-2/

Lunchtime chat about something we don't often speak enough about… periods. A natural cycle that almost half the population experience once a month. Which is significantly linked with physical and mental health and well-being. I think this short chat is relevant to everyone, with or without a period.-I start by talking about the female athlete triad, what it is, my experiences, and what can support healing & recovery.-Getting my period back after five years!! the day after Scotland becoming the first nation to PASS the bill to provide period products free for everyone. -Finish by talking about period dignity & period poverty- how impactful dehumanizing not having access to period products can be. I have had many cruicual open and honest conversations with Vilius about periods, how I have felt over the years, the worry and angst when I lost my period the official name being hypothalamic amenorrhea and the joy I experienced when it came back- a huge lesson in trusting our bodies and knowing they will balance their selves out when they feel relaxed and at ease.  Female Athlete Triad related resources:Book: No Period. Now What? by Dr. Nicola J Rinaldi, Stephanie G Buckler, Lisa Sanfilippo Waddell Podcast: Endurance Planet, Stacy Sims, PhD: The ‘Everything' Guide for Female Athletes

In this episode we talk about mental health, Ryan's experiences living bipolar, peer support, the importance of community, body image, the journey of life and everything in between.We had such a lovely conversation. Ryan is the leader of two mental health groups every Saturday at the Brunswick Centre, Balornock in Glasgow. Ryan hopes to grow the group and extend the support to many more people living with mental health problems in Glasgow. Follow Ryan's journey and support Ryan on Twitter @rydo_x and join the Glasgow Mental Health Support Group (GMHSG) on  Facebook.To hear more of Ryan's journey and support wonderful Scottish podcasts give these episodes a wee listen... Rebel City Podcast - Episode #39 - Ryan Coutts - Depression & AnxietyMrs Brain Trainers- Glasgow Mental Health Support Group Leader Ryan Coutts | Episode #18I AM | Jen WIlson- #114 I Am...Ryan Coutts Mental Health Advocate and Group OrganiserALSO lovingggg The DW podcast right now- really worth checking out and supporting Scottish pods- creating community and celebrating Scottish voices/stories. 

Ah I just came across this wee episode I recorded a few months ago. I thought I would release it as it's been a wee while since the last episode. Working behind the scenes on hippeaoils and finishing uni. I think the episode is still super relevant... a wee random “hot take” (as blind boy would say) on wearing suits and emitting negative energy...Music played: Stephen Wake, The Old Copperplate

Trigger warning: we discuss and share our own experiences - sensitive issues around eating disorders, suicidal ideation and mental illnessThis was such a wonderful, open conversation. We shared our experiences and talked about a range of topics:-Depression and anxiety -The power of reaching out, having someone even just one person to talk with and share how you feel-Eating disorders; The stigma and misconceptions around eating disorder, the blurred-lines and sometimes slippery slope of Orthorexia and Anorexia, difference in gender diagnosis and the ways in which the media/social media/fitness/wellness industry are perpetuating and idealised, unrealistic and damaging messages around diet, exercise, body image and health...-The ways in which the pandemic and government guidelines/advice around getting fit and ‘loosing lockdown' pounds feeds into diet culture, shame and guilt. Putting the blame back on to individuals and creating trauma.-We touch upon adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and some of the stigma around mental health embedded in Scottish Culture We touch upon Women in science, the ways in which women are often excluded from scientific research the ‘reasons/excuses' and the impact of this on health diagnosis and misdiagnoses. We also talk the life long journey of recovery and healing touching upon different coping mechanism from counselling, to blasting music, to seeing the warm autumn leaves..There is a range of support and information available for eating disorders online from podcasts to books, to support groups... depending on the stage of your healing journey. BEAT can be a good one to start with. Adrienne on The Listening Project, BBC Radio 4Adrienne's wonderful blog: There's Method in Mental Health – Mental health can be confusing and difficult, but there's always a wayAdrienne and a wonderful panel; Humans of Scotland and the power of storytellingThank you again to everyone who has taken the time to listen to the podcast and share feedback- this was by far my favourite episode so far.Also if, you don't know about the community, podcast and YouTube channel i-weigh it's really worth checking out.Music played: Stephen Wake, The Old Copperplate

In this podcast, I share my experiences of training to become a counselor and the reasons why I believe we all have a human need for having a non-judgemental space to share our experiences and how we feel... I also touch on the impact of materialism on our sense of self and mental health...·I start with a wee story about the journey of self-awareness; me projecting fears and having pause. ·I compare the process of applying for jobs to online dating- starting off with enthusiasm and passion… and slowly becoming disheartened by the process and the challenge to remain passionate after filling out the tenth masssssssiii application form vs introducing yourself/small talk again & again in an online dating space….·Ending with some related subject, the roots of materialism, and the idea that we can buy our happiness or fill our sense of emptiness with external stuff- PS Freuds nephew is called Edward Bernays!!Documentary mentioned in the podcast: The Century of the Self, documentary series by filmmaker Adam Curtis. Breaks down in wonderful, easy to understand detail the impact and history of consumerism in our society.Podcasts mentioned in this episode: Blind boy podcast: Dumb Blubber Pandy, A look at Edward Bernays, the originator of propaganda and advertising.Under the Skin #Ep3 with Russel Brand and Adam Curtis; about the rise of individualism, where real power lies, and whether we really want change.Music played: Stephen Wake, The Old Copperplate

Guided relaxation & Love and kindness mediation Soul Food Series Ep #7... with a wee bit storytelling sprinkled in…This was one of my favorite podcasts to record and share. It is a really therapeutic practice, that has had a huge impact on my own  journey. I have kinda created and shared my own practice in this episode combing all of the things I have learned and loved over the years. ooh and although it still feels a wee bit vulnerable, I am finally starting to get used to talking to myself out loud into a microphone. If its your first time trying a guided relaxation/love and kindness practice it may feel strange- but its soo worth trying. Give yourself 20 mins. Carve out time, listen to it alone of with someone else, listen to your body and see how you feel after.It might be really nice to try before bed, but also anytime during the day when you want to check-in and relax.Resources mentioned:Jack Cornfield- A Path with Heart. All his work is incredible, lots of lovely podcast episodes too- my fav is Duncan Trussell's conversation on the DTFH.Sharon Salzburg- all of her work!Music played: Stephen Wake, The Old Copperplate

The scariest and yet most healing podcast for me to share so far. I added this photo to show the visual component of this episode- the search for balance in my mind has manifested in my physical body over the last few years…I haven't had the courage to listen to it back yet- it was very raw and vulnerable to share some of my experiences around disordered eating, but kindly Vilius has had a wee listen and reassures me that it is valuable for others to hear. The main reason I share this podcast is that I firmly believe that eating disorders, issues around food, and diet can consume and steal our time and our potential. Wasting so much energy and time worrying about food can prevent us from being fully present and creating a life we enjoy and gets in the way of us loving ourselves and others fully. Disordered eating and eating disorders are often a symptom to deeper rooted issues... and this is by no means a podcast to share advice. It is simply a podcast to share my own experiences, healing journey, and thoughts in the hope that someone can relate and feel as peace knowing that you are not alone. Unfortunately, there is a lot of shame and stigma attached to these issues, but I hope that it provides us comfort knowing that we are complex multi-faceted beings. We are more than one thing. We are more than our views; we are more than one moment. We can have parts of ourselves that we want to improve and heal from… but that doesn't make us less than, it makes us human. Healing from ‘disordered eating patterns' can be a long journey. Stress and uncertainty can bring old habits, pain, and negative thoughts back into my life for sure- but there is hope in love, acceptance, vulnerability, courage and compassion for ourself and others- words inspired and feelings by many hours reading and listening to Maya Angelou, Jameela Jamil, Brene Brown, Laverne Cox and Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman to name a few…I hope to have a conversation about some of these issues with another human being soon. It is really challenging to talk about sensitive topics that I have never really shared out loud into a mic to myself without any feedback from someone else.  There is a range of support and information available online from podcasts to books, to support groups... depending on the stage of your healing journey.BEAT can be a good one to start withMusic played: Stephen Wake, The Old CopperplateThank you again to everyone who has taken the time to listen to the podcast and share feedback!

In this episode, Vilius and I talk about everything from hiking; our experiences of the West Highland Way and the Great Glen Way; wild camping... to life, to using natural products, to counselling and politics. It was lovely to hear our similarities and differences on topics. But, also the ways in which we experience the exact same day differently. It was a really lovely conversation and a chance to sit down with Vilius without distractions for an hour.Thank you again so much to Viliuso for sharing his time and wonderful funny self.Thank you also to everyone who has taken the time to listen to the podcast and share feedback.Music played: Stephen Wake, The Old Copperplate

This was such a wonderful podcast to record! Sid lives in California, we did this episode via zoom: 9 am his time- 5 pm my time. Me and Sid met in Edinburgh at the Vegfest around 3 years ago..his holistic approach to health and well-being instantly aligned with my vibe and incredibly, he agreed to come on the podcast!Sid is an author, nutritionist, musician, ultra-runner, podcaster, creator and director of the Mendocino Coast 50K and much more...We talk about all things, from health and wellness to sid's small steps approach, to changing habits long-term. I share my journey to find balance, I talk about Orkney, finding balance with running and my past experiences with extremes... overdoing health, thinking about nutrition and food too much, overworking and hearing for burn out... Something I think about often, pushing our self physical is normalised and often championed in our society..  Running and yoga has been an incredibly positive thing in my life, but for a few years I overworked myself, I used running escape, to distract or to run away from sitting with pain and emotion, just like any activity, we need to try and evaluate our relationship with it.. asking ourselves why are we doing it, if it's adding to our lives and if it's bringing us real joy... Are we drinking to have fun and socialise, or are we numbing our pain and distracting ourselves... With physical activity, I consider now more than ever, ‘Just because something is perceived to healthy doesn't mean we have a healthy relationship with it, and sometimes it can end up having an adverse effect on our lives..Thank you again to Sid for sharing his time, listening to me blether, and imparting wisdom. Sid's Website~ which has easy access to his podcast, youtube books, and updates.Sid's Small Steps ApproachSid's books Approaching the Natural, that we mention in the episode, is one of my favorite books- it takes a holistic, simple approach to health and well-being- considering our physical, mental and spiritual 'needs'. I have gifted this wee book a lot, it is pocket-sized and really worth a wee read- I have a copy- please give me a wee message and we can share...

Wee mid-week Soul Food episode...I just re-recorded the intro for this podcast (pre-recorded a few days before we went on the camping/hiking trip)..In the intro, I talk a wee bit about the things I have been doing recently, hiking the Great Glen Way, wild camping and Ben Nevis.. that led me to embark on a new journey to become a counselor, and how I feel that having a non-judgmental, safe space to share how we feel is integral to our mental and physical health. I also went on a few wee tangents about my perceptions of addictive personalities/traits and other episodes I am planning...In the main section, I talk about the idea of delaying 'gratification', the idea waiting or extending the time in-between good feelings actually make the good feeling better... for example coffee after a run is always nicer- even though the actually getting out the door to run is tough!I think I mention two podcasts in this episode:The Blind Boy Podcast- one of my fav, just listened to the newest episode about individualism and collectivism- where 'blind boy' breaks down the ways in which individualistic (self-interested) societies have responded to COVID-19 in comparison to more 'collective', co-operative societies.. for example, the ways in which Americans have responded vs China in relation to wearing masks- some Americans stating that it is breaching their individual freedoms, in comparison to China, where the idea of wearing masks is viewed more in terms of protecting everyone. He is really creative and fun to listen to, making complex ideas interesting!Rebel City Podcast Music played: Stephen Wake, The Old Copperplate

In this episode, we talked about everything from creativity and mental health to the feeling of inner peace and joy that comes from climbing a mountain- how there are almost two versions of Scotland- the incredible highlands and grey, dark council estate vibe we both grew up around and that Graeme artfully outlines in the young team... We also talked about hope, and the impact of having someone who believes in you, even when you don't believe in yourself.  -Such a wonderful conversation, thank you so much to Graeme for sharing his time and for reading two wonderful passages from the book- I have never attended a live book reading, however, I am so glad reading has become such a big part of my life... and I think the young team bridges that gap- it is such a great read for people who enjoy reading but also people who have not picked up a book since school...Graeme's book- The Young Team (really amazing read- can't recommend it enough)other great conversations with Graeme:1. Brave Your Day- Remove Yourself / with Graeme Armstrong2. Rebel City Podcast - Episode #70 - Graeme Armstrong3. Drunk Therapy Episode 65 - Graeme Armstrong's Young Team4. Graeme Armstrong | The Young Team, Drugs & Gangs to Times Bestseller | The DW Podcast - Episode #31 Thank you again to Paul Shields- co-host of Rebel City Podcast for the amazing audio and video production. 

The selkie story; beautiful and heart-breaking. A story about power, sacrifice love, liberation and coming back to yourself- my own interpretation... I first heard this story when I lived in Orkney, a wonderful woman shared it with me when I was at Scapa Bay, one of the most beautiful wee beaches I have ever visited. I randomly retold the story to six lovely older women I worked with at the food bank and one girl I went to uni with, no-one had heard the story before, which insipred me to do a wee podcast on it.Story-telling, mythology, and folklore are still a big part of the Orcadian culture. Its how people connect, celebrate, and keep stories/history alive. There are versions of the story all across the world, it is thought to have roots in Celtic mythology but who knows. The meaning of the story is left for your own interpretation. Books mentioned: If Women Rose Rooted: The Power of the Celtic Woman, Sharon BlackieWomen who Run with the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype, Clarissa Pinkola EstésBothy Tales: Footsteps in the Scottish hills, John BurnsPodcast mentioned: Scots Whay Hae! Podcast episode with John Burns and Aleister Crowleyhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/2jvjfVcvep3nSaGtFUUmal?si=bNlS6gS6SUqGbcQlNUweUAMusic played: Stephen Wake, The Old CopperplateImage used:The Seal Woman statue at Mikladalur's harbor, Fareo Islands

Paul co-creator of the Rebel City Podcast- we talked about all things life, growing up in Scotland, self-reflection, mental health, creativity, practice, meditation and more- such a cool conversation! Thank you again to Paul for giving his time to this chat and for the awesome audio and video production #madskillz. Some of my favorite Rebel City Episodes:#43 with James Docherty on ACE's#40 and #65 with Darren 'Loki' McGarvey#54 Women Against Capitalism #60 with Sharon WebsterRebel city podcast: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-17FrezX4VZVoFLBrNQp1QMusic played: Stephen Wake, The Old Copperplate

Disclaimer: the causes and impact of homelessness are multi-layered and wayyy to complex to discuss in a short podcast. The intentions of this episode are just to humanise and bring to life real stories. I think this is my favorite podcast yet. The podcast was inspired by a homeless man a spoke to a few days ago, I quote him in the first sentence of the podcast. His story and his energy that day sparked deep sadness within me. I talk from the heart, about the homeless people I have met in my life through my work and on the street. I share the joy that we can get when we realise we have so many more similarities with people than we do differences. But, I also share my anger and frustrations of injustice and social inequality. I share stories about my experience working with Crisis and the incredible work the charity does across the UK- one of the highlights being the meaningful work they do around Christmas time. I talked about the connections I have made working and celebrating Christmas- a time where we can almost enter another world for a day, and just be humans connecting and enjoying being together. I talk about the difference between the shame attached to making a decision from necessity rather than choice. Relating it to be homeless out of necessity and giving up your home as choice to downsize or travel the world or in my own experience of choosing to use an old Nokia phone now as an adult instead of the shame or embarrassment I would have felt if I had the wee Nokia out of necessity as a teenager.I have often felt a deep connection or/and draw towards homeless people, I see myself sometimes, that somewhat romanticized idea of not fitting into the existing structures that our society presents to us. That idea that this de-attached from nature and community, world, we live in doesn't really jive with all that much- and my heart is really in the Orkney islands or in Glen Rosa.... And also that the idea that a person can never fully reach their full potential when their basics needs are not met, and how many incredible people do we lose because of their daily circumstances hold them back. Crisis For Christmas a wee blog post I found from the time I volunteered with Crisis: https://dweebyrunner18.wordpress.com/2017/03/13/the-fluidity-of-life/Bethany trust sleepout we did at the Vennie community center in Livingston. Music played: Stephen Wake, The Old Copperplate 

In this short episode I share a wee breathing practice inspired by my Wim Hoff journey, I first got into cold water therapy and breath work maybe around 6 years ago, after first hearing Wim on the Rich Roll podcast, I remember how strange Vilius thought I was taking cold showers and practicing loud breathing haha. I love the message wim puts out, just breathe, doesn't need to be fancy, through the nose or through the mouth, what ever feels comfortable for you just get the air in.. Something that is accessiable to us all and that actually gives us instant physiological and psychological effects. I also share 10 wee habits/practices that I would choose to do in a perfect day, with all the time in the world. This was inspired by the idea that if we know more about what we love, or what we enjoy doing (finding that out by thinking/writing down what brings us most joy) we can begin to incorporate more of that in our lives. Also,  I just found out my wonderful, but dyslexic brain left out number 7 on the list... my number 7 would be putting on the music you love and finding a spot outside to walk and sing loudly, it always brings me so much joy (after I get over the fear) my go to's are: Jimi Hendrix, Fleetwood Mac, Joni Mitchell, Wilson Pickett, Gerry Cinnamon.. depending on the energy my choice can change...PS ‘Tend to the garden you can touch' is a Buddhist proverb that really resonated with me.. I think I first heard it from a podcasts with a Duncan Trussel and Joe Rogan.. by far one of my fav guests on Rogans podcast, you can create your own meaning and take what you want from it. I guess it means to me that we need to look after/ and love our selves before we can start helping/ fully loving other people.Although I only share a short breath practice, I want to caution this episode by saying that deep breathing can make you feel a wee bit dizzy and light headed, so maybe sit down if it's your first time. Also, if you feel any benefits, check out all the resources surrounding Wim and other cool breathing advocates/teachers. There is wonderful podcasts and videos detailing how and why we should breathe more. 

In this episode, me and Vilius talk openly and honestly about our relationship journey over the last 6 years. We talk about what we have both learned about ourselves and each other. Our experiences and views are often different but our world view and values tend to align.  We also shared how honest and vulnerable communication has really helped our relationship. I feel like relationships teach us so much about ourselves. My relationship with Vilius has taught me about my insecurities and my weird defensive tendencies and at the same time it has allowed me to trust, lean in, and rely on others so much more- which is for sure is still a work in progress, like our relationship...Thank you so much again to Vilius for taking the time to do this podcast, and showing up as yourself, being honest, open and funny. PSPS thank you for all the lovely feedback and taking the time out of your day to listen. Music played: Stephen Wake, The Old CopperplatePodcast mentioned: S8, Ep6 How to Fail: Glennon Doyle

Wee solo episode inspired by the idea that we are all unique and have intrinsic value, without doing anything productive or 'achieving' any goal we are enough..there is literally no other human in the world like you, that is so crazy to think about. In this podcast, I share my own journey, I break down the ways in which I practice believing in myself and my worth (as a person who has struggled with self-doubt all my life). There is also a wee bit about being kinder to ourselves, body image and perfectionism sprinkled in, inspired by... I Weigh with Jameela Jamil and Catherine Bohart podcast..I am still trying to get used to speaking into a mic by myself and hearing my own voice. Any feedback would be so lovely.Music played: Stephen Wake, The Old Copperplate Podcast: I Weigh with Jameela Jamil and Catherine Boharthttps://open.spotify.com/episode/0lOnkIdWmgqEzKpWl0W8FQ?si=GQuDAZaKTZaIYp4gl2B_Dg

This first episode is a wee introduction to why I wanted to start a podcast and why I chose the name. I asked Vilius to make up some wee questions to ask me, which he kindly did, in his own unique, funny way. I wanted to say so much more, but I think over time as the podcast develops and I become more comfortable with my own voice, I will be able to articulate my ideas and share my experiences clearer. However, it is a journey and starting is sometimes the biggest hurdle to overcome. Music played: Stephen Wake, The Old Copperplate Music Mentioned: Tracy Chapman, Talkin' Bout a RevolutionBooks/quotes mentioned: Maya Angelou: ‘I know why the caged bird sings', there is no greater pain than a story untold' and Letter to my daughter‘Walk a mile in my shoes' Empathy project: https://chrismalapitan.com/2017/11/06/a-mile-in-my-shoes-an-art-project-on-empathy/Wee blog I wrote years ago about the power of podcasts:https://dweebyrunner18.wordpress.com/2017/05/05/podcasts-changed-my-life/

Wooah, this was scary, and oh so cringy hearing my voice, but I think it will be helpful for anyone who wants to invest a wee bit of time in yourself, today or any day. I talk a wee bit about it in the podcast, relaxing and taking time to create space and distance from the everyday moments can be beneficial both when you are feeling happy and sad, or any emotion. We often find it hard to create time for us, especially when we are feeling down, we can forget to look after ourselves in these moments, in contrast, when life feels good, we sometimes forget to sit, reflect and feel gratitude. The uncertainty of the last few months has impacted us all in so many different ways, ways in which we might not even be aware of yet. So, I thought this might be a nice episode to start with.Guided relaxation or Yoga Nidra is not easy, it takes time to relax, and on different days it can feel easier to let go and feel at ease. So, if at first you feel this is ‘not working' or you don't like it. Try and push through and see how you feel after its finished. You might still feel like wow that sucked, but at least you tried. Wherever you are at today, emotionally and physically, try and carve out a wee bit time for yourself, even if you don't listen this podcast, try and give yourself some time to do something that brings you joy,  time is our most valuable asset, like money, we have time to spend, and what we spend time doing, who we listen to, what we read, can slowly become who we are- planning a wee podcast about this soon, surrounding how we can create more inspiring places for ourselves online.