Sometimes, survival means keeping parts of yourself hidden. In this deeply personal episode, I explore the “art of holding back” — a skill I learned as a teenager and carried into adulthood. From carefully edited truths to protecting others at the expense of my own wellbeing, I share what it’s like to live behind a filter, the cost of internalising pain, and the moments that remind me just how heavy silence can be.

This episode dives into real-life experiences, from school and work to life-threatening situations, and reflects on how holding back shapes our relationships, our sense of safety, and our ability to heal. It’s raw, honest, and ultimately about the slow, difficult process of reclaiming your voice.

Trigger warning: This episode discusses trauma and emotional suppression.