Wellbeing with Manny in conversation with......

TW: Dark, suicidal thoughts are discussed please listen when you feel you can. Welcome to this super bonus episode……you are not ready!! This is a special conversation. Miguel is a creative social entrepreneur and one of life's absolute gems. He has created the most incredible community of dancers within the Liverpool City Region and has worked with some of the most famous artists in the world including Michael Jackson and Beyoncé. Miguel's ‘MD' brand of dancers has been the only group to ever reach the semi-finals of Britain's Got Talent a staggering 3 times! It is easy to look at Miguel's really ‘shiny' achievements and think this is what success looks like but with the highs comes some incredible lows. Miguel opens the conversation with some honest reflection of his journey through life so far, the good bad and the ugly! His entrepreneurial journey began over 20 years ago and due to his incredible work ethic and levels of empathy, Miguel found himself giving away more than his capacity could allow. His business was in some level of financial difficulty and the stress of everything Miguel was trying to keep afloat became all too much. Miguel hit absolute rock bottom. He was in an incredibly dark place, the darkest you could imagine. He used his crutch of food, seeing his weight spiral and the stress led to a painful and significant skin condition. He thought this might be the last time he would teach dance and began to walk away from all he had built and the dreams he envisioned. Slowly but surely, Miguel found his love for dance again and with his spirit of character and the resilience he had witnessed day in day out from his incredible mum, raising 4 children alone, he found the strength to ‘do the work', heal from within, find his passion and drive and remember what he truly loved. Miguel generously shares with us how he felt a loss of identity growing up, as he explains about his sexuality and his race not ‘running side by side'. It was hard for him to align with what he saw in the mirror and who he was. There was little or no representation for him, no one that he saw paving the way, which is why I think Miguel is a true trailblazer, walking the path for others who will clearly now see themselves reflected back at them. What a story of resilience and growth, inspiration and dreams.You are one exceptional human being Miguel. Here's to all you go on to achieve in life and thank you for being YOU. I see YOU and you see ME. So grateful for you. Follow Miguel:www.migueldoforo.com@MiguelDoforoor on the socials @seeyouseemecic Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Heeeeeeee's back! It's only Wellbeing with Manny in conversation with…….. the first ever guest and huge friend of the pod – Matt Mills!!!! Yayyyyyy!Matt Mills had much joy and learned wisdom to share with us today. Matt has successfully completed the UK tour of Dreamgirls playing his ultimate role of Curtis. Whilst this was his absolute dream, he reminds us all of how grounded and present we must stay. This includes keeping learning and growing no matter what.Matt is about to originate the roles of Berry Gordy/Nick in the UK/West End premier of the much-anticipated MJ the musical. Getting the opportunity to create a role was another step on the ladder of Matt's dreams and one he never thought he'd be lucky enough to achieve. To think that there was, not so long ago, a young Matt who had suffered a stroke and need to learn to walk again let alone gain the strength enough to play 8 shows a week! We're in awe!Yet again Matt is generous, warm, open, honest, and encouraging. This conversation is a celebration of Matt's determination, hard work, and general all-round awesomeness. We always feel as if we'd had a huge hug and spoonful of positivity when we've spoken to Matt……oh and of course there's lots of laughter, because it's us!! Thank you Matt, we are so proud of you and all you've achieved.Here's to you – Matt Mills xInstagram @millzilla_X - @Millzilla_ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TW: In this chat we discuss mental health in depth, including suicide. Please listen with care and when you feel you can.This episode is dedicated to Mike's brother and one of my best friends Ben Aspinall and his whole family. We love team Aspinall. Mike Aspinall is a 41-year-old father of 2, ex- professional Rugby player, CEO and founder of a group of companies called the NPP group. He is a property developer and investor but to best describe him, using some of his own words, he strives for the best investment of his time in order to cultivate a good life. After an incredibly promising start to his professional Rugby career, signing for Saracens at just 15-years-old and being selected for England under 18s, Mike began to experience shoulder problems that saw him undergo many operations by the age of just 20. What was to follow were some profound awakenings of his own vulnerability within the sport as a player. Even when Mike switched career to a successful professional Rugby coach, he was advised at just aged 26 “to quit”. The exact words were “(In the future…) if you ever want to pick up your children, you need to stop”.Mike's resilience and incredibly strong mindset allowed him to dial down and focus on what was next. Fast forward to today and Mike has built a multi-million-pound property business from the ground up. His determination and quest to align with his family values and priorities has ensured finical freedom and a wealth of time to invest back into his family. He shares some absolute gems with us and I know you will get so much from this part of the episode. Mike generously opens up to the deep trauma that was the death by suicide of his dear brother and one of my best friends Ben, aged just 17 years old. He talks about how that weighed upon him and how his growth mindset and quest to be ‘successful' whatever that means, is perhaps in some way to remind his parents that they are great parents (and my goodness they are) and to make them proud.It's an emotional one, it's an insightful one, it's a special one and Mike is one special friend. Thank you for your time, honesty and one of the best lines ever……“Don't whinge about the rules of the game, just figure out how to win!”Love you millions!XFollow Mike on Instagram @mikeaspinallproperty or @northernpropertypartners Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TW: We mention mental health and touch upon male suicide - listen with careWell check us out doing a little cross pod! Jen Hilton is the host of her own incredible podcast She's Winning, where she interviews some of her fellow high performing females in an array of different industries. It's amazing and I'm a huge fan! This was Jen's first cross pod so I feel very honoured indeed. Jen was a professional dancer for over 10 years working in musical theatre, landing several dream contracts including in the West End. At age 30 Jen found herself in a change of life circumstance, pregnant with twins and thinking about other career directions. A keen and highly skilled photographer Jen had always had a camera with her, so she diversified into actors' headshots. Jen loved helping people look and feel great and felt incredibly useful and valued by the people she photographed and that is when she realised that this could be her new journey. Not only is Jen a photographer, but she also specialises in brand identity, brand strategy and has a thriving business, Woman the Collective, empowering ambitious women to be seen online and improve visibility. Jen also asks me a lot of questions too and you will hear me speak more than in a normal episode due to the nature of it being a cross pod…..sorry!!! We talk all things WOMEN, the pressures, confidence, body image, aging, fear of judgement and how and why I started my podcast. Jen shares her tips on where to start with growing a brand and I share tips on dialling down to what it is you want more of in life! I have loved this chat and Jen is soooooo easy to sit and shoot the breeze with! Her brand shoots are a thing of beauty - go check her out on her socials! Jen you're a total force and we love what you are doing to empower, lift and support other women.We think you are totally winning……see what I did there?Thanks JenXWebsite: www.womanthecollective.co.uk Instagram: @woman_yourpersonalbrandFacebook: @Jennifer HiltonAndy's Man Club: andysmanclub.co.ukFacebook: @andysmanclubInstagram: @andysmanclubuk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TW: In this episode we mention (not in huge detail) anxiety, depression, dementia, cancer, in particular breast cancer – please listen carefully and when you feel you canLast summer I had the pleasure of being invited to the beautiful Palm House in Sefton Park in Liverpool for a very special all day Wellbeing Event. At this event I was given permission to do a roaming podcast – some of that you will hear later in the series, but I didn't know I would come across this queen!Amanda from Zoti Project, Zone Out Tune In, had a beautiful set up outside with her sound bath, various instruments, mats, head rests, eye pillows – I think my daughter stayed there pretty much all day!! Amanda was generous enough to say that I could record her sessions whilst people were attending. Amanda is a meditation, breathwork and sound healing practitioner and talks much about the mind body connection. In the first section of the recording, she also takes us through the emotional freedom technique commonly referred to as tapping. This can be a way of identifying where anxiety is felt in the body and then we can use tapping to see, process and transform that energy. It can help to calm the nervous system by tapping on meridian points whilst repeating affirmations. The second section focuses on how vibrations and in particular sound healing can be a powerful therapy tool. Sound healing has long been used as a therapeutic relaxation method. She talks about how there is more and more scientific and medical investigation into vibrations and sound waves with regard to chronic illnesses. She also talks about the benefits of sound healing when dealing with grief or trauma that we may hold in the body and how it can gently and lovingly awaken our mind, soul and spirit. It is fascinating work and I thought it might be a thought-provoking episode to introduce you to some different practices should you wish to investigate further. I really hope you enjoy it and get something from it, I know I did!A huge thank you to Amanda for being so open and allowing me to sit by her with my mic and record her freely whilst engaging with her practice. You can contact Amanda at Zoti project via her email Amanda@zotiproject.co.uk or on Instagram @zotiproject Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mairi Barclay is a musical theatre performer who spreads joy and sunshine everywhere she goes. Some people in life are your radiators and she is HOT!! I ADORE this gal! Known as the queen of self-care, this girl knows exactly how to reframe her world into the balance that we're all looking for. Mairi shares with us the reasons as to why resilience is key and how she has managed to navigate the choppy waters of acting so well, generously sharing her anxieties and learnings on the way. Mairi's journey into being a performer began at a very young age and by 10 years old Mairi knew this was her path. Growing up in Fife in a loving and supportive family, Mairi was just 13 when she moved to Glasgow to train in musical theatre alongside her classic education. The resilience she learned in these formative years would ground her and empower her for the tough years ahead. At just 16 years old she auditioned for a place at a prestigious drama school. Having been told she was too young for her dream school of Arts Ed, she embarked on her journey at Italia Conti. Knowing only a few months in that this was not the school for her Mairi bravely left Italia Conti and re-auditioned the year after for Arts Ed where she eventually got a place. Despite there being little funding available Mairi worked a part time job and somehow, with the grit and determination she had been nurturing since the age of 10, managed to pay for her training. Mairi shares with us the ups and downs of the industry, the incredible jobs she done and the times when she had month/years out of work. She talks about the toll this had on her mental health and the importance of her weekly therapy sessions with the industry minds councillor and ex-podcast guest, our beloved Mary Burch. Mairi generously shares her thoughts and experiences with body positivity in the industry and how her incredible role in Lizzie at our most favourite theatre, the Hope Mill Theatre was “the job never knew she needed”. We both make a huge shout out to Will and Joe at the HMT who are leading the way in creating kind, non-judgemental, inclusive rehearsal rooms in order for actors to feel safe and thrive.Mairi Barclay we absolutely love you. I feel happy and joyful when I'm with you. You are the light in the room. Instagram, Facebook and X@mairibarclay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Alex Smith is a classic multihyphenate! She's an ex musical theatre performer, a personal trainer and life coach and most importantly is an endometriosis advocate. At the age of 11 years old Alex started her periods. From this moment on, everything changed for Alex. She spent huge chucks of the month with a whole host of severe side effects including crippling pain and even fainting. For years it felt as if Alex was screaming into the wind. All she was asking for was someone to listen. The general attitudes of everyone including medical professionals (obviously not all but Alex is telling her story as it was for her) was that she was a ‘drama queen'. Her situation was so severe that she had to leave musical theatre college as she was bleeding so badly she was severely anaemic. Her upbringing although loving and caring with very supportive parents, was in part difficult due to it being a religious upbringing and therefore conversations about the body were much more tricky and not as free flowing. Fast forward a STAGGERING 19 years to 2020 and then, only then did Alex have someone listen to her and get a diagnosis of Endometriosis, and we might add, one of the worst cases the doctor who was treating her had ever seen.Alex generous shares with us exactly what endometriosis is and the further education needed in this field to ensure other woman are listened to. Alex is now a life coach across many areas but specialising in Women's Health and is a true ‘Endo Warrior.' She is building her ‘Flareless' brand where her coaching helps women manage their symptoms with some of Alex's own healing journey research. Alex has just had a successful retreat and will be organising more in the future. Alex really brings to the fore the issues around women's health and investigation and this whole conversation is fascinating, with such an insight into what it is like to choose a purpose driven life of service and advocacy. We think you are small but fierce! We love you pocket rocket!Follow Alex on her socials:Insta @iamalexandraelizabeth_ or @flarelessfemaleFacebook Alexandra Elizabeth Smith and Reset and Rise Retreats Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oge is a wellbeing consultant and coach working predominantly with people in leadership. Oge calls herself a Grand Soul which I love! Her soul is grand, and I believe it means she is capable of infinite possibility – and after this conversation I know this to be true!Oge's work concentrates on supporting people working in leadership in various organisations to cultivate a culture of wellbeing which in turn leads to success and knowing that a work life harmony (as opposed to balance, as Oge calls it) is 100% possible. There doesn't always need to be sacrifices in our wellbeing in order to create success. Oge explains the different aspects of wellbeing and how it is not just one thing. When just one of these components are out of sorts your whole wellbeing system can feel out of alignment. Oge generously shares her thoughts on purpose – a subject she discusses in great length when working with her clients and how finding your purpose can really be the key. Oge talks about how in her experience a lot of people are not living in alignment with what they truly want. She examples the education system in this part of the conversation, and it is fascinating to hear. A top tip from Oge to dialling down and listening to what you really want is to get curious in order to find your purpose and to ask yourself questions. A place to start might be “what really pisses you off”! For this I would have many answers!! It is clear from this conversation that happiness and purpose truly is an inside job and listening to what you really want can shape some powerful and purposeful life choices. Thank you so much Oge – It's always a pleasure to talk to you! You can find Oge on Linkedin – Oke Okosieme Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TW: In this episode we discuss some tough topics including anxiety, depression, suicide, miscarriage, abusive relationships, cancer diagnosis and whilst all of these are nothing to be ashamed of or should carry a stigma, we know these can trigger feelings for so many. If this is you, please feel free to listen when you are up to it. Charlotte is an exceptional human being. Dedicated to living her life as an ‘adventurer'. So much so she is called The Executive Adventurer. Charlotte is a Coach, Consultant, Speaker, Adventurer and Mentor. Charlotte's previous career was in no way connected to her current career yet a few years of soul searching, listening to what she really wanted, reading some excellent books and ultimately following her North Star, something Charlotte talks about in the episode, she arrived at this incredible place of service to others by tuning in to what she really wanted.Charlotte's life, I think it is fair to say has been tough, traumatic and challenging. She generously opens up to how she has survived deep depression 3 times, an abusive relationship, a marriage breakdown, multiple miscarriages and as she turned 40, a cancer diagnosis. Charlotte so profoundly says “cancer is the least worst thing that has happened to me”. This really made me stop in my tracks. Her response is powerful.She opens up in such an incredibly enlightened way and her words are hopeful, positive and comforting despite the subject matter. She signposts to some incredible resources that she has on her website and ultimately “walks us home” with bravery, insight, and compassion.This is one mind blowing conversation and Charlotte you are truly a one off hero!May your sense of adventure live on!If you wish to contact Charlotte or download any of her free resources, below are Charlotte's details including the TEDx talk she references.https://www.charlottefowles.com/Instagram: @executiveadventurer Charlotte's TEDx Northwich talk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUhkiCTBn38 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Claire Marie is a health coach and Femmway ™ trainer. Claire's interest in empowering and lifting others has always been present in her life. This was certainly something I felt when I first had the pleasure of meeting Claire when I was training at Drama School in her previous incarnation as a dance teacher. Claire moved to Australia in the mid-2000s after meeting her Ozzie love. After having children, as some women do, Claire explains, life changed, and she wanted to re train in a career that would mean she was the best she could be as a mum and could give her children a great blue print by which to live. Despite all this deeper work and living a healthier, happier lifestyle, when Claire hit her 40s, she felt as if there was still something missing. After an introduction into how hormones may affect our mood, our bodies, our weight……. our everything, Claire fell down a most enlightened rabbit hole! After years of research and devising her own incredibly unique way of explaining the cycle that women go through each month, Claire now has her own business, focused on supporting and empowering women. Claire beautifully explains the language she uses for the 4 phases of our cycle and what might feel good to do at each of these points. She also explains how useful it is to include the whole family in knowing what and when your phases are. It is truly fascinating, and I learnt so much. Do not be fooled this conversation is not just for women. If you have any women in your life, mum, daughter, grandma, sister, friend, colleague, you need to tune in. I adored this conversation I know you will too. Thank you for your wisdom, Claire xReach out to Claire: Instagram: @femmwaylifeFacebook: FemmWayWeb: www.femmway.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Well this is very exciting! Most people who know me well know that my dad is the greatest human that ever lived….according to me…..and everyone who meets him! I know that my quest for looking after people and treating people well all came from him. His core values align a lot with mine….apart from his RED CARD FOOTBALL incident, listen to the end to hear that particular indiscretion!!My dad shares with us his secret to happiness and how his mantra of “don't cry for the moon” has seen him always be happy with his lot in life, providing me and my sister not with everything we wanted but everything we needed. I find the intergenerational similarities fascinating. I talk about my dad in such fond terms and he does for his dad, my Grandpa Julius, to whom he attributes all his best qualities. My dad talks of how his father guided him and advised him but never solved his problems, therefore instilling a sense of resilience and ownership. He talks about his father's great skill of understanding people and that words were his greatest tool. My dad generously shares a period of darkness in his life, before children, that came following a short spell of intense stress and pressure and how that taught him some valuable lessons going forward. We also get very important permission from my mum (who by the way is also a legend….) to talk about her anxiety and different characteristics which have been tricky to navigate at times. With compassion my dad says that when we are dealing with things that mum doesn't feel she can do, instead of being frustrated which he often gets, he tries to help and see it from her point of view and how she feels. “I am not the who says I am, I can…I'm this……I am happy as I am”Well, we think you're THE guy! We love you, 100% as you are.Thanks so much for coming on the podcast dad, this podcast is loving dedicated to you and mum who are the best parents and Grandma Trudie and Grandpa Julius, no longer with us, who raised a mega mega human. Thank you for being here and sharing series 3 with me! You are the best community x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jake Lindsay is a 21 year old disability awareness and acceptance ambassador, equal rights for all activist and all round absolute legend. Jake is a very new and dear friend to me after Jake reached out to me on social media after seeing my slot on stage at the Lowry, where he is a volunteer, during the High Performance podcast live tour, July 2023. Jake is one of life's absolute rays of sunshine and someone with wisdom, heart and authenticity running through his veins. Jake's advocacy is truly heart warming and how he raises awareness for his community is invaluable.Jakes shares with us his story of how Jake Lindsay Studios came to be and how it became a positive focus during lockdown.Jake generously opens up about the difficulties of being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world and speaks to us directly about what we can do as allies to support and arm ourselves with knowledge. Jake shares with us how he has managed to build his confidence through some of the incredible drama groups available to him in both Warrington and at the Lowry and how that ultimately led to his volunteering at the theatre, something his 13 year old self could never have envisaged him doing! Jake has an incredible wealth of knowledge, he is well researched, has a wonderful support system in some of his friends and family, special mention to his incredible parents who I am sure are bursting with pride to have a son like Jake. If all 21 years olds were like Jake, the world would be A-OK!!! What a shining example of how no matter what life throws at you and how quote unquote ‘different' you are to the quote unquote ‘norm' (what the hell does that even mean?!) You are special, worthy and perfect and you can make such a difference if you lead with your heart, with service and with purpose. Thanks for teaching us Jake. Follow Jake on all these platforms:His website – www.thejakelindsayshow.co.ukFacebook – Jake Lindsay and Jake Lindsay StudiosX - @jakelindsay2001 and @Lindsay_showInstagram @jakelindsaypersonal and @jakelindsaystudiosofficial Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lowri Dowthwaite-Walsh is a perfect podcast guest, and you'll very quickly figure out why! Lowri trained as an actor as one of only 4 girls in her year group at The Bristol Old Vic theatre school. The huge irony of Lowri's story begins with the fact that she landed a dream job as a character in a soap opera for 2 years. Her character was studying psychology and philosophy and Lowri became so engrossed in her research that she fell head over heels in love with psychology - so much so, that she quit the acting business in 2005 and went back to university to study Psychology. Not content with that, she followed her degree with a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology and worked in the NHS for 7 years as Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner. A real-life full circle moment!Lowri has also been a lecturer in Counselling, Phycology and Wellbeing and is an expert in her field researching the topics around wellbeing and the science of happiness having published many papers. Lowri is now concentrating on building her own private practice. Lowri generously opens up about her experiences as a professional actor – the ups and downs. She also talks about her fascination with what it means to be human and the challenges of going back into academia after living quite the creative life. Lowri shares her thoughts and experiences from her years as a practitioner around treating depression, anxiety and trauma and how happiness, as she so wonderfully puts it, Lowri says: “Instead of being obsessed with happiness we can be content with happier”!I think recognising that happiness is a practice that we need to build on is absolutely key. It is there for us all, but it isn't necessarily as easy as just ‘let's all be happy'. It's a very interesting and uplifting conversation with someone who has made a significant and positive impact on my life!Thank you Lowri, you Welsh goddess!! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He's back!! We are so honoured that Jonny Landels at Next Step Nutrition is sponsoring series 3 of Wellbeing with Manny in conversation with…..! Jonny joined us on the very first series episode 4 for those of you who may want to go back and listen! Jonny's episode had such an amazing impact and the feedback from the Wellbeing with Manny community was overwhelming. For many wonderful folk who were stuck in a diet culture, body hating cycle, they really connected with Jonny's words.Next Step Nutrition is an incredibly successful online coaching company focussing on personal training and intuitive eating counselling. Jonny has spent years working in this tough industry, trying to find ways to make it accessible for people to live healthily, without restricting and ultimately having compassion for themselves and their bodies. Jonny is also a professional music theatre performer and therefore understands both of these industries with real world experience, making him such an ideal guest for the pod!Jonny drops so many mind-blowing comments it's hard to know where to start for the description - I mean you just need to listen!We talk all things body positivity, diet culture the absolute minefield that is the fitness industry – always coming from a place of no judgment and pure compassion.There is always so much scrutiny around the female body and that chat is ongoing, triggering and exhausting for all but in this chat, we also talk openly about the male body and how that has significant shifted over the years.Jonny also gives us an insight into exactly what is intuitive eating, including some resources we can look at if we are interested and of course we are…… we are hanging on your every word Jonny!Jonny you are a true friend and supporter of this pod and we are incredibly lucky to have you! Thanks for being part of our community!Get in touch with Jonny should you wish to chat more:Instagram and X (twitter) @jonnylandels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

THE Millie Quine is a queen! At just 20 years old she is wise beyond her years and you are going to love Millie Quine as all who know her do!She is a Musical Theatre performer, already working in the industry, despite not having graduated yet! Millie has Cystic Fibrosis which is a genetic condition caused by a ‘faulty' gene from both parents. As Millie says it is a mutation that is formed during conception. For Millie she has the most common Delta F508 mutation which means she has too much mucus for her body to handle. She suffers day to day with chest difficulties, digestive issues and people with CF can be predisposed and more at risk of liver disease, arthritis, diabetes, and a whole host of mental health issues. Millie so bravely opens up about her period of intense difficulty when her health and in particular, her mental health declined so severely she was hospitalised. She is super proud to have continued to this day to have support from a psychologist.Millie has an incredible online community with her page My Lungs and Me where she brings together and supports others with CF. She is positive, inspirational and so articulate, caring, empathetic and warm. Millie shares a profound moment when her parents asked her doctor what they could do to keep her fit and her blood moving round her body to aid her manual physio. The doctors said, “maybe dancing?” Who knew what that would bring! What began as a hobby to keep Millie as healthy as possible turned into a lifelong passion and when I say remember the name MILLIE QUINE, I mean it. This girl is TALENT!Millie sees how special life is and how each moment is precious. Millie works hard at spreading joy and radiating light. The medical advances have made CF a much easier condition to manage and here's to many more well years to come for those living with CF.Millie continues to be the light in the room and we adore her! Thanks for your time and your wise words!Find Millie Quine - Facebook for her Mylungsandme blogInstagram @mylungsandme Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today's episode is a slight departure from the norm -a tad different, yet really special. I am a huge advocate for the young adults of today. I teach in a university, and I think our students are an impressive lens into the future. Today's episode spends a little time with 5 of UCLan Music Theatre's first year students in an open and honest chat. We talk social media – the good, the bad and the ugly. The way social media has positively and negatively impacted their lives, as for most, it has largely been a world with social media. We discuss the industry and how they see it changing with more diversity and better representation. They also generously talk about being away from home and their uni life experience which for some is not quite the partying and drinking associated with first year students, largely due to the nature of the course. I am so privileged to teach the students on the Music Theatre course and I hope their passion, their support for one another and their openness to be vulnerable is a lesson to us all. To Fran, Lily, Niamh, Sammy and Suzo – I adore you and thank you for your time and generosity! Enjoy x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Little note - *The sound quality is not great, it is a bit glitchy at times but stay with it….you get the idea and the conversation is fab!!*Full time professional actor Sol Sang is a welcomed dose of honesty, openness and truth about re-entering the business we call show slightly later in life (but at exactly the right time!) whilst juggling 3 amazing kids and many different jobs to make it all work (kind of!)Sol chats so honestly about the reality of re-entering the business after her 3rd child was nearly 4 years old, as a woman in her 40s filled with all the mum guilt.Sol talks about her ‘typical Asian household upbringing' and how her career aspirations as an actor were not exactly the lawyer and the doctor that her parents had hoped for!Sol openly talks about how this lack of having someone in your corner fighting for you, supporting you and cheerleading for you has led to a life of self-belief and self-doubt. Couple that with a previous agent who didn't see Sol's talent and made some incredibly poor and ill-judged submissions for ‘Asian' roles she ‘could' have been suitable (and not suitable) for…Asia is a big place you know?! Fast forward to now with her fantastic agent who is her biggest cheerleader and understands who she is and most importantly, utterly believes in her as an actor, she is slowing beginning to step into her power “my 40s are my best decade yet!” Amen to that! Sol generously shares her story about living with bipolar (personality disorder) and how that affects her life. She shares the good and bad and how social media affects that in both a positive and negative way. Sol Sang is total force. She is a South-East Asian Women in her 40s……she is VALID, she is DOING IT and she is our MEGA STAR! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Katie Windle has been a significant figure in my life since I was 11 years old. One of my first friends I made at high school and lucky for me, I have remained friends with her ever since. Katie wears a couple of different hats, first and foremost she is a wife, a mother (to 2 gorgeous gals), a qualified teacher, but most importantly Katie uses solution focussed hypnotherapy to help people overcome anxiety. Katie's specialism is working with women of perimenopause and menopausal age.Katie opens up about her health conditions, struggles with her history of anxiety and low self esteem, something I felt aware of growing up but perhaps as a youngster didn't recognise. I share how hearing Katie's story made me feel quite sad to begin with, as I wish I would have known how to help and support Katie, however those feelings soon make way for the incredible admiration and joy I feel seeing Katie now living a purposeful, fulfilled life, still with struggles, but with more tools to work through it effectively for herself and her family. Katie profoundly said that “nothing is good or bad - it just is…” it really made me reflect. I really connect with that thought and by learning about ourselves and our brains we can move through life with a much greater sense of ease. Thank you to my very special friend Katie you are a wonder – you will love this convo!Get in touch with Katie:Email: info@thehypnotherapyden.co.ukFacebook: The Hypnotherapy DenInstagram @thehypnotherapyden Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TW: We discuss cancer in particular Leukaemia – read the episode show notes for more.A sobering question for you ahead of today's episode…….what would you do if you only had 3 weeks to live? Despite opening with this question – this episode is UPLIFTING like you wouldn't believe!You will leave this conversation with a new lease of life, a newfound energy and a mantra to live by… “Don't sweat the small stuff!”Liz Stephenson, one of my incredible friends from high school has been a professional singer for over 25 years. Otherwise fit and healthy Liz began feeling a little ‘under the weather' back in the early part of 2020. Symptoms included feeling fatigued, some hip pain and generally ‘not quite right'. After several attempts to understand what was happening, visits to the hospital, Liz pushed and pushed to be seen during a very difficult time (remember we were in 2020 Covid times). After finally being admitted to hospital and several bloods tests later, on July 27th, this day in 2020 at just 39 years old, Liz was given the devastating news that she had feared, a diagnosis of cancer - acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. What follows is Liz's story of unbelievable resolve, strength and relentlessness. Liz's positivity throughout has seen her through some of the darkest moments of her life. After Stem Cell therapy and Car-T therapy, the latter of which is not readily available in the UK yet, however her consultant fought her case to have her included in the trials after realising that this was Liz's last chance. Without Car- T therapy, Liz would have had around 3 weeks to live. Liz shares her story, unedited from start to where we find ourselves at this present moment, exactly 3 years on from original diagnosis to today 27th July 2023, cancer free and in remission.To say this lady is the most inspirational is an understatement. I have had the privilege of knowing her for over 30 years and honestly her radiance and light continues to beam through the retelling of this horrific time in her life. She has now swapped the stage as a singer for an inspirational speaker, traveling around the UK sharing her story and awareness of the signs and symptoms of Leukaemia, but it doesn't stop there, oh no!! Liz is going to be writing her story in a book and writing an information book to help those navigate their cancer journey with a greater sense of ease! I mean come on, talk about when life gives you lemons……what can this girl not do?!!!!Thank you for your openness and generosity, we love you Liz.If you would like to find out more or join the Stem Cell register, click the link here: https://www.anthonynolan.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TW: In this episode we pay tribute to Brianna Ghey, this may be triggering for our trans sisters and brothers. Please listen when you feel you can and we are here for you. Some signposting website supports at the bottom. Welcome back to Series 3!!!! Thank you so much for coming back you are so loved!!This week's episode features the wonderful Mariah Louca. Mariah is a Sheffield based actor, writer and artist who I was so privileged to work with on Jonathan Larkin's fabulous play Cherry Jezebel at the Liverpool Everyman last year. Mariah talks about the necessity to balance your health and wellbeing in the performance industry and how some health worries, particularly this year, has brought that home more than ever before.As a proud trans woman Mariah talks so generously about growing up in a hetero-normative world and not in the queer community, her experience as a queer woman was very different. She talks about navigating her life with a sense of privacy and privilege and the moments that profoundly changed that. In one such moment, Mariah very bravely and emotionally opens up about the effects of the horrific murder of our sister Brianna Ghey and the shocks throughout the LGBTQ+ community. Mariah is a beautiful woman and some of what she chose to talk about is deeply personal and we are privileged that she opens up to us. We are forever indebted to her and others like her. Here at Wellbeing with Manny in conversation with….we will do all we can to be an ally. If we can do anything better, let us know. We see you and we love you.Thank you Mariah!Helpful links:https://www.stonewall.org.uk/https://mindout.org.uk/https://lgbt.foundation/https://www.theproudtrust.org/https://galop.org.uk/https://www.akt.org.uk/https://www.wellbeinginthearts.org.uk/https://www.industryminds.co.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TW: Child bereavement, pet grief, body imageThis bonus episode is an incredibly special conversation with one of my closest friends. Nicola Karunaratne-Diver, affectionately known as Nic KD has had a transformational 8 and a half years and to know her and her story is a true privilege. It took some convincing to get Nic to tell her story, and being a close friend helped to seal the deal! She really wanted to share her story and I am so proud of her and happy that she did.Nic and her husband Gerard moved from Ireland to St Helens 18 years ago. In 2013 Nic fell pregnant. At their 20 week, scan Nic and G were told that there was an ‘anomaly' and she would be closely monitored during her pregnancy. On 13th March 2014 beautiful Malcolm was born. He was born with a rare heart condition which sadly resulted in Malcolm living just 3 days. For a long time Nic struggled to even say Malcolm's name. Nic generously admits that she didn't really deal with her grief until Grace her incredible little girl she had in 2015 went to school. She recalls using fitness as a way of punishing her body for how it had ‘let her down as a woman'. Nic knew she needed help and she was fortunate to access some incredible support from child bereavement specialists and over time began to transform her life and really start living but with Malcolm truly in her life and able to talk about him.Nic openly and honestly said “When Malcolm died, I died” and she continued to explain that the Nic that existed before Malcolm no longer existed and she was reborn. She decided to reframe much in her life, look at her non negotiables, her boundaries and to rebuild a better life.We as a friendship group have a party for him each year, with a buffet and lots of cake and no one is scared to say his name. Grace KD knows she has an older brother, he's just not there like we are and all our kids know who Malcolm is!We also talk about her gorgeous dog Speedy G who was her side kick and best pal through some of her darkest days and how pet grief is also something incredibly difficult to come to terms with. “Time heals…..it doesn't. Time passes and people stop messaging.”It's powerful, inspirational, sad, happy, and most of all hopeful.Thank you Nic, I am so grateful for your honesty and bravery. I know you will love this conversation.This is dedicated to anyone who knows this pain but most of all it is dedicated to Malcolm who will forever be part of our lives 13.03.14 – 16.03.14For further support please visit:https://www.sands.org.uk/https://www.achingarms.co.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TW: We discuss addiction, alcoholism, suicide and depression – please listen when you feel you canThis is our first ever cross podcast collaboration, and I am so excited!!!How did this come to be????………Strap yourselves in this is a good one!Anna Veale is a mindset coach, specialising in Men's mental health. Anna has 20 years' experience as a personal trainer and sports massage therapist working in male dominated sports arenas. Anna was noticing similar issues across the male sports world and equally saw both an unwillingness to talk and a lack of support for men. In the UK it was that stiff upper lip stoicism and in New Zealand, where Anna lives now, it was the ‘She'll be ‘right' all is ok phrase.Anna has her own podcast called The Fresh Minds Podcast which interviews ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Having listened to it, no wonder Anna wanted to reach out to me, as our pods are so similar and we, are like two peas in a pod!How did she find me? So as some of you may know, I was featured on The High Performance Podcast back in May and Anna is a huge fan of that pod and heard my interview. She sent me an email and I thought she sounded mega and the rest is history! Our friendship is so beautiful and our chats are deeeeep!We wanted to record a cross pod, totally unscripted and see where we ended up. We chat all things communication and the importance of human connection. We talk about Anna's space in the men's mental health world and how that came to be. I open up about my driving force for starting my wellbeing journey and some stories about my past. We discuss boundaries, priorities, presence and time. We end with purpose which I think is super fitting.It is honest real and from the heart. We hope you enjoy it as we loved recording it!!Thanks my friend!https://www.freshcoaching.me/Instagram @freshcoachingnzThe Fresh Minds Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adam Bamborough from Wellbeing in the ArtsAdam Bamborough is the founder of Wellbeing in the Arts, an organisation set up specifically to support the health and wellbeing of people in the arts. Adam generously shares his story about when he experienced his first ever episode of depression around the age of 18. Adam never felt as if there was a specific ‘moment' that triggered this first experience, however he can reflect on the possibilities as to why this may have happened. As an actor Adam confided in very few people about his mental health struggles for years, fear of losing jobs, judgement, the stigma…. Adam almost enjoyed the relief of being someone else for a while and masking his true feelings. Adam talks openly about the fact that his depression or the ‘black cloud' as he calls it is always there and it is something he has learnt to manage over time. Some days are better than others and some days are a real struggle. Adam was diagnosed later in life with ADHD and with this late but significant diagnosis, things suddenly started to make a lot more sense and offer much more clarity. Adam explains that being neurodivergent can leave the door open for mental health issues and understanding himself and wanting to support others has been the biggest driving force in setting up Wellbeing in the Arts. Wellbeing in the Arts is a supportive, non-judgemental, safe space where people in the arts can access many different supports from their highly experienced team of counsellors and coaches to mental health training, events, surgeries and industry workshops. Adam and his team are part of a positive drive for a culture change, and I am absolutely in awe of everything they are doing. If you think you need help, reach out and say those words, “I need support”. We have all been there and you can and will get through it. Thank you Adam, you utter legend!Visit www.wellbeinginthearts.org.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paul Sockett is a storyteller, a coach and a workshop leader around ‘stuff' and the stories we tell through the things we keep. More to explore about this in the episode!!Paul chats to us so generously about his work with ‘Claim Your Space' and a process he calls ‘Streamlining'. He talks about how we can always lower the stakes to bring things back to our basic human needs, returning to self and the true essence of self. “Lowering the stakes - when we find ourselves in a moment of vulnerability, what's the easiest access point? How is that possible in the moment I am in?”By shaping the ‘stuff' we have through streamlining, we are not making it smaller, we are making choices! “Thriving is what we want, whether we keep things or not, we thrive”It is a thought provoking, powerful and impactful conversation and with Paul's carefully considered use of language, he exemplifies how personal the interpretation of language is in effective communication.Paul is a gorgeous, generous human who is genuinely holding space for people, supporting and encouraging them to thrive, and we are HERE FOR IT! Thank you Paul for your time!Contact Paul:https://www.paulsockett.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ellen Murray is a mindset and empowerment coach, working with high achieving women who are experiencing feelings of overwhelm and on the brink of burnout, supporting them to shift their priorities back to their own wellbeing. Ellen's story is pretty mind blowing and she also happens to be one of my newest and most significant friends and I am so grateful for her!For 10 years Ellen had a hugely successful and thriving fitness and nutrition business which grew to a level Ellen never thought possible. Over the years Ellen supported 1000s of women with a team of 10 staff to improve their fitness and relationship with food. Anyone in and around St Helens knew of her, she was the one to go to if you wanted to join a super community of women all taking control of their lives (including me who joined in many of Ellen's amazing Glow Fit classes!)During the pandemic in 2020 everything changed. I don't want to spoil Ellen's telling of her incredible story so all I will say is after finally listening to her body.“Sometimes the body whispers to you but now my body was screaming at me!”After days in bed, unable to be her usual energetic self, ulcers, difficulty with cognitive function, stints in hospital and so much more, Ellen was diagnosed with ME or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and was told it would be unlikely she would work again and with that she closed the business. Fast forward to 2022 and Ellen is still a major super human working yet again to support and help women but wearing a slightly different cape and not so many lycra leggings and neon caps!She truly is one in a million and I know you will love her story. If you want to connect with Ellen you can find her on Facebook Ellen Murray Mindset and Empowerment Coach or on Instagram @ You can also watch her incredible documentary Unstoppable: Life with CFS https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1Kbo85PJeMThank you beautiful lady x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Strap yourselves in, this is a wild one! A little step away from a specific arts conversation to an inspirational story told by this wonderful woman, my old babysitter, Dilani Gaunt.Dilani has worked as a social worker in Mental Health for 20 years and is now in the process of starting a new coaching business.Dilani says so candidly “I have always thought that my brain was broken”. Dilani talks about her struggle throughout her life and how her brain worked differently to everyone else. She has always thought that she was just disorganised, a let-down to her friends, couldn't keep to time, couldn't get any jobs done, over thinking everything, which then led to a life of crippling levels of self-worth and years of anxiety and depression ………UNTIL, she realised that through no fault of her own she had never actually been diagnosed with ADHD. Suddenly Dilani's life began to make sense for the first time in decades!Dilani shares with us some very personal and heart-breaking family tragedies and the breakdown of her marriage, alongside the journey to understanding herself and how she could have been better supported had she known.This episode was a privilege to listen to. I feel honoured that Dilani trusted me with her story. It's not an easy listen at times but it is powerful, impactful and utterly awe inspiring!Thank you Dilani! You will forever be my favourite babysitter!TW: Anxiety, Depression, Self-worth, Family bereavement (Cancer and Leukaemia) trauma and ADHDPlease listen when you feel you can.Lots of love! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cat is one of life's utter superstars. Any time I spend with Cat leaves me feeling so happy as I am lifted by her beautiful energy.Cat is a self-confessed voice geek! (Aren't we all babe!) She is a singing teacher and vocal coach, specialising in adolescent and young voices. Her fascination with wellbeing and the voice led her to complete an MA in voice pedagogy.As part of Cat's MA, she was invited to a webinar about singing and Trauma, focusing on Adverse Childhood Experiences. In the course of the webinar, Cat filled in a questionnaire to assess how likely a person's trauma would manifest in poor life decisions, potentially leading down the path of abuse, addiction and even prison. Cat scored a whopping 9/10 and began to wonder yet again, as she had done previously in her life, if her love and passion for singing had been her saviour. Cat has made this area of study one of her specialisms and has much to share about the incredible benefits of both solo singing and singing together in choirs. Cat opens up about her experiences with auditioning and how she has been able to release much negativity with her own self believe and the pursuit of purpose led living. Cat blows my mind with her positivity and resilience in the face of such potential adversity, and the way she now helps others, is beauty in its purest form. Cat believes you are always where you are meant to be, and we are so grateful for the space she occupies. I adore her and I am sure you will too!TW: Childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorder, personality disorder – please listen when you feel you can. https://www.industryminds.co.uk/https://applauseforthought.com/https://www.wellbeinginthearts.org.uk/https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Robert Rhodes is the biggest ray of sunshine ever! Strap yourself in for a super conversation with someone who finds every bit of joy in life and doesn't waste a second. Robert is an actor (and dog groomer extraordinaire!) and a campaigner supporting both the Changing Faces and Face Equality International charities. Robert opens up about his experiences as a child growing up in a world where he had a facial difference yet didn't see it until it was pointed out to him! He talks candidly about the negative representation on screen and the trend of almost all villains having either a scar, a burn scar or some level of facial difference, which sadly and shockingly became synonymous with evil and villainy. When Robert was little, the film The Lion King had a profound impact on him as it appeared to reinforce to the world that ‘scars were evil' (the character of Scar). Bond villain after Bond villain had facial disfigurements and for Robert he couldn't understand why heroes didn't have scars! They fight as much as the villains – too right!Robert generously shares with me his thoughts on how we can help educate people, how to talk to and in particular, how to talk to children about facial differences. Robert finds the joy in life and is super in tune with when he needs to own his boundaries, take in some nature and take a self care day! Robert has the most supportive family and friends and growing up he was instilled with a sense confidence and overwhelming positivity which really shines through!You are going to feel lifted, loved and a little bit wiser after this chat!Thanks so much for your time Robert you busy bee! Follow Robert @RobertRhodes160Follow and support the charities mentioned in this episode: https://faceequalityinternational.org/https://www.changingfaces.org.uk/https://katiepiperfoundation.org.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is one special episode. So usually, we bring you one guest but today we have two!! Brothers, Tom and Jo Brassington are both primary school teachers who have written the most beautiful and impactful book called Bottled. Bottled is a children's picture book helping children of all ages understand why, and how, they should express their emotions in a healthy way. “…An invaluable tool which parents, guardians, teachers and others can use to create emotionally honest spaces for children in their care.” (Bottled)Early on in their teaching careers, Tom and Jo were seeing patterns in their classrooms. They were observing children who were struggling to navigate their own emotions and in particular the naming of certain emotions. They both learned in their teacher training about particular barriers to learning and in sharing experiences in their own classrooms, noticing, naming and opening up about emotions had become a real barrier. This experience coupled with an unexpected family crisis, Tom and Jo found themselves in their 20s with no tools in their arsenal to handle such issues. “When something impacts you, you need to help others”. (Tom)The impact of Bottled has been huge. The brothers have had feedback from primary schools across the UK, in particular, those working within SEN (Special Educational Needs) schools and families who have opened up and in some cases with traumatic stories, about how this book could have saved their son or daughter. It's incredibly powerful.“Children's picture books don't change the world, but they do change the little world of little people” (Tom) – these are the kind of gems you are dealing with in this episode.Get your copy of Bottled at Waterstones, Amazon and all good book shops. Visit https://anemotionallyhonestspace.co.uk/ to connect with Tom and Jo and browse their resources which are amazing! https://www.empathylab.uk/empathy-day-2022 You can follow Tom and Jo on the socials using @brassobrothersJo @jobrassingtonTom @brassoteachThank you both for your incredible words, what you are doing is nothing short of amazing and so impactful. I am so honoured to know you both and I know how much you will love these two humans!Ps Jo's artwork and Tom's baking is almost as good as their writing!!! Don't you just love how beautifully talented some folks are?!!! TW: We discuss children's mental health, depression, anxiety and death by suicide. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back!!!! What a line up we have for you! Thank you so much for your support you all rock!So this first episode is a corker! It 100% aligns with everything I wanted from the podcast!Crystal is a holistic health coach. She was born in Barbados and moved to Toronto at the age of 18 to pursue her career aspirations to become a performer. After completing her BFA in performance, Crystal specialised as a dancer and found a life on the ocean waves dancing on some of the world's biggest cruise liners. In between contracts, with just a week's break, Crystal auditioned for the Lion King musical and booked the job! What a dream….. then followed 6 wonderful years as a professional musical theatre performer….until at only 6 weeks left of her 6 year contract, the pandemic hit. On reflection, this turned out to be space, time and most importantly the pause button that Crystal needed. 6 plus years of neglecting herself and pushing and pushing to be the best she could be, the most ‘perfect' performer she could be, all the while feeling burnout, stressed and eventually googling “quick fix for anxiety” (haven't we all!)Knowing she had to prioritise herself, Crystal did a deep dive into hypnotherapy, nutrition and health coaching. Now as an incredibly successful holistic health coach, Crystal coaches clients with her wealth of performance experience to navigate the world we call ‘The Industry'.Crystal has some incredible insights, top tips and more importantly some forward-thinking views on how the industry, especially ‘the roots' level such as training institutions, could incorporate more sessions on how to look after yourself, own your boundaries, handle rejection and develop a growth mindset.Crystal can be found at: https://www.crystalnicholls.com/And she mentions: https://www.1giantmind.com/ for meditationThank you Crystal, you're an incredible human! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dane Chalfin is a commercial vocal coach working with high level performers in the West End, TV and Film and the recording industry. Dane has been working in voice clinics since 2003 as a voice rehabilitation specialist with contracts across the NHS and a private consultant for a number of ENT clinics…..there is nothing he doesn't know about putting a camera up your nose! Dane talks about the complexity of the voice, in particular the differences between other physical injuries such as a broken leg and an injured voice. There is a vast difference between how we and others around us treat these injuries.Dane is a huge advocate for ‘multidisciplinary' work when it comes to dealing with vocal issues and explains why it is essential for all the teams involved to communicate.Dane shares his thoughts about the post covid vocal world and why some performers may be experiencing difficulties. He generously shares some gems on what to do to begin that strengthening process and the signs to look out for should you feel you need further support. It's mind blowing some of the little things that perhaps we may not have thought would affect us so much! From singing on zoom, to practising at home (when our neighbours may not be too keen) to the best line ever, when despairing at our lack of vocal stamina as the theatres began to reopen….. “there is no substitute for 8 shows a week!” Ain't that the truth!Dane's tips are always the best. Sadly, in the chat, he doesn't wear a cloak or have a long white beard, but he is affectionately known as 'The Wizard', and I can vouch for that, he truly is! He's also a lovely and supportive person!Get your pencil and paper out and take notes he really is the best in the biz!Enjoy!Helpful resources that Dane mentions:BAPAM - https://www.bapam.org.uk/Help Musicians UK - https://www.helpmusicians.org.uk/Royal Society of Musicians - https://www.rsmgb.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olissa Rogers works in casting as a casting associate and has recently started casting projects independently as a casting director. Olissa is an incredibly positive, and forward-thinking person who absolutely understands the need for kindness and wellbeing in our industry. Olissa is an ambassador with the incredible Wellbeing in the Arts who provide vital support within the arts industry. Olissa's positive, supportive social media channels lift people and make twitter a better place…..in my humble opinion!We chat all things work/life balance and how Olissa has managed that over time, sustaining positivity and resilience throughout her life to live life to the fullest. We talk about the challenges of a post pandemic industry and how short lived some of the ‘we have to slow down and reflect more' mantras became, leading to even more stress, more work and eventual burnout. We discuss mental health in the industry and what more we can do, including the hot topic of ‘yes/no' post audition with an interesting and insightful casting perspective. Olissa shares her tips on boundaries now that modern life feels more busy and full than ever before. Olissa says “failure makes you stronger” – I love how powerful that is! This is an uplifting, positive and realistic look from a different vantage point and I loved it!Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mary Burch is the lead councillor with Industry Minds, an incredible UK based mental health charity that supports creatives in the arts industry. Mary was my absolute dream guest, and I am honoured that she took the ‘time to talk' to me! I say that as we recorded this interview a few weeks ago on ‘Time to talk day', a day very on brand for this podcast!We talk about self-esteem, rejection, imposter syndrome and the difficulties of supressing negative emotions. On days when we feel sad it can be our mind and body's way of asking us to check in and look at what is going on. Negative emotions such as sadness, fear, anger, frustration are all telling us something. It is vital we listen to them and give them some attention, otherwise they sit in our body and physically and mentally weigh us down. As Mary says, “negative emotions go to the basement of our bodies and begin lifting weights!”Mary talks about the importance of reaching out, talking, and sharing how we feel – of course, if and when we are ready to do so. She encourages us to check in more and listen to others with no judgement, no fear, no agenda. Sometimes knowing someone is there can make all the difference. I loved this chat with Mary as her experience and general calming, lovely nature made me feel so held and I know you will too.Enjoy!TW: We talk a little bit about depression. Please listen when you feel you can.If you are struggling and feel you need support, please don't hesitate to contact anyone below – if finances are a struggle, please still reach out to Industry Minds – they have creative friendly prices and, in some cases, you may be eligible for a free session. Industry Minds – mary@industryminds.co.uk @IndustryMindsUK (twitter)Applause For Thought – info@applauseforthought.co.uk @ApplauseThoughtSamaritans – 116 123 24/7 serviceShout (text service) text SHOUT to 85258 24/7 service Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bad Dog Bakery business owner Ellie Winn is one of the nicest humans I have ever had the pleasure of meeting! She's one of life's radiators and a total gem! Ellie is so caring and empathetic towards everyone she meets and would never want to admit that she didn't always have the energy to give to people. We open up the conversation of how giving can be hard and draining, despite caring so deeply. “When the well is empty, where do you go?”Sometimes YOU need to take a break and YOU need to share but that can be hard, but when you keep it all inside, it's almost always detrimental to our own wellbeing. Ellie generously opens up about her own mental health and wellbeing journey, which includes some chat about post-natal depression. We talk frankly about the shame of admitting you need help and Ellie is super honest about her journey into ‘new motherhood' and her feelings of shame, a subject that gets too little airtime! As Ellie says, “honesty allows for more honesty” and sometimes talking about the not so rosy parts of life can be refreshing and make us feel less alone……so on brand for this podcast!TW: Post-natal depression/depression in general, overwhelm and new motherhood. Please listen when you feel you can. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode will blow your mind! This is not only for performers but for teachers and EVERYONE! Sarah is a musical theatre, actor-musician, singing teacher with many years of experience. Sarah's main passion is performance anxiety – a huge area that in recent years, has been exacerbated by the pandemic. Sarah has completed (and totally aced) her MA in vocal pedagogy, specialising in performance anxiety and has 3 years' worth of research to share!Sarah shares fascinating insights into her case studies and generously shares some of her techniques, not to mention the incredible results, some of which were documented at just 6 six weeks after their first session.Sarah talks about personal values that align with your values as a performer, the power of mindfulness, awareness, acceptance and self-compassion. She also touches upon how we can reframe things and slowly begin to see improvements.Sarah is in the middle of writing up her research into an article that will be published in an academic journal……so I'm taking this as an EXCLUSIVE!Enjoy the ever so wonderful, Sarah Mahony.Sarah mentions the work of Kristin Neff PhD and Russ Harris Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I am lucky enough to have Catherine as part of my family! Catherine is a health and mindset coach, specialising in supporting women and in particular any transitional shifts in women's lives. Catherine's journey is incredible. From childhood where she recognised her parents' lifestyle choices and health conditions were not ideal, to her own career in the RAF where she felt the pressures of having to maintain a level of fitness and certain weight to enable her to work at such a high level. Catherine shares with us the story of when she stopped working when she had her first daughter and the challenges that lay ahead, particularly with her mental health struggle, the difficulty in getting the care she deserved, and the feelings of loss of identity. Catherine recognises the defining moment in her life where she began a new path of self-discovery and began to rewrite her goals and remind herself of what really mattered. Catherine generously shares with us her experience of parental loss, depression, negative self-talk and giving certain emotions and feelings some energy. She is one of the best coaches working in this field and I am so grateful to her for her time……I mean she is family it would be rude not to!I hope you enjoy this inspiration human, she's super special! TW: This episode includes parental loss, depression, and negative self-talk. Please listen when you feel you can. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ciaran is a plasterer turned actor originally from Northern Ireland living in New York. Ciaran opens up about his own mental health struggles which led him to learn about meditation. This journey has contributed to improving his mindset. Ciaran explains how he actually “doesn't have time not to meditate”. For Ciaran, improving his mindset and dedicating quality time to meditation has ultimately led to a more productive life. Navigating acting and wellbeing can be hard, and you would struggle to find an actor, or anyone for that matter, who gets it 100% right all the time! Ciaran has invested much time in cultivating the most positive, productive, and celebratory life! Ciaran shares some incredible tips including my favourite, which is his book of smalls wins! This conversation is with someone I ADORE! You'll feel the love and the support! Someone once said to me, find your radiators not drains! You know, the people who lift you up, support you and make you feel held, safe and loved, Ciaran is that!Hope you enjoy this open chat about living a happy life…..when you're an actor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jonny Landels is one of the UK's leading figures in nutrition and fitness. He has an online company called Next Step Nutrition which aims to be a more accessible, positive and fulfilling approach to lifestyle and wellbeing improvements, fighting against the grain of miserable diets and constant ‘sad step' (the scales!) weighing in battles. Jonny talks about his experiences navigating this tricky world of nutrition and fitness, both personally and as a purpose driven business, with people and more specifically individual circumstances and lifestyles at the focus. Jonny reflects on his own journey as a coach and how he has invested so much time and money to grow and be the best support for his clients. Jonny generously opens up about his darker days of depression, including the sad loss of his beloved dad when he was only a teenager. Jonny is the only person I have ever trusted with my own struggles of body image, fitness and food and I genuinely could not adore and admire his kindness, compassion, generosity and expert knowledge anymore. This will be quite the chat…….enjoy!TW: We talk about depression and grief, in particular the loss of a parent. Please listen when you feel you can. How to find Jonny online:https://nextstepnutrition.co.uk/@NStepNutrition (twitter)@JonnyLandels (twitter)@nextstepnutritionltd (Instagram)Jonny mentions these supports for Men's mental health:Andy's Man Club @andysmanclubuk (Instagram)Brotectors @brotectors (Instagram) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lucyelle Cliffe is one of our best known musical theatre performers and all round mega human. Lucyelle is still at the top of her game over 20 years into her career with an impressive CV, including some of our favourite shows - Les Miserables, Wicked and Legally Blonde. Lucyelle talks openly about the struggles of the past few years and the devastating impact of the pandemic on our theatre industry, including her deeply personal trauma of losing both her hair and her voice, as a result of Covid. Lucyelle talks of the lessons learned and the power of surrendering in the present moment, where her belief systems come from and how she came to be the resilient, strong, kind, force of nature we know and love. This conversation has it all!All hail Queen Lucyelle, what an inspirational chat this is………enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Mills is an actor currently starring in Tina the Musical in London's West End. Matt has an incredible story of strength and resilience to share as he re-tells the story of his recovery after a stroke at a very young age. He talks of love and loss and the strong women in his life who have kept him positive and grateful.TW: Some of the content deals with recovery after a stroke and grief. Please listen when you feel able to deal with that subject matter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A week today Wellbeing with Manny in conversation drops!! We go LIVE with season 1 on 7th April 2022 with episodes dropping weekly, each Thursday. Join us for some wholesome conversations that discuss real life in all its glory. Warning....it contains real joy and general uplifting chatting! Come and listen - you're very welcome! We are more alike than you think. The hope is that the conversations will resonate, making you feel less alone. Want a little teaser? Listen to this!!See you there! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.