Today I'm joined by Mandy who talks firstly about her battle against a 16-year addiction to cocaine and her subsequent recovery, alongside her efforts to rebalance herself whilst also battling a nervous breakdown and serious depression.
Mandy had - in her own words - what we would call a 'normal' childhood that, while including some bumps in the road was relatively happy. At the age of 12 she first began smoking cannabis and this progressed in the manner of youthful curiosity towards harder drugs that eventually took over in a number of ways.
Told with honesty and emotion, Mandy walks us through her life of partying, to the point where she decided to move away from drug use, the slip-up's and successes, learning about how the body functions with a view to healing herself and much more in between. Ultimately Mandy's story is one of hope, self-belief and the realisation that "there's a lot of beauty in this world if you just look".
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
To check out Mandy's work, click the links below:
Today I'm joined by Shlomit Liz Sanders - Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional to talk about how easy it is to fall into routines, the need to work on oneself to improve your partnership, becoming 'weather guy and handwash girl' and so much more...
Shlomit has 10 years' experience in the field, working with high achieving individuals as well as couples - all of whom have either lost their way or who feel like things just "aren't right". In her work, Shlomit integrates neuroscience and psychotherapy as a method of helping clients to understand themselves and their needs, as well as how to express them confidently in order to get what they want out of life.
Talking openly and honestly from both professional and personal experiences, Shlomit reminds all of us that the need for communication and co-operation in a partnership doesn't just go away once we get to know one another and the phrase "never stop dating each other" will stick with me for years to come.
Check out Shlomit's work on the links below:
Today I'm joined by Rob McCarthy, author of 'Fuck The Script - How to Own Your Shit and Rewrite Your Story' - a self-help book that's not your average read. As Rob himself states "...you come for the title, you stay for the book".
So many of us are consumed by the belief that success means having a newer car, a bigger house, flashier clothes and other trappings that signal to others that we've 'made it' - but it's an illusion, a hamster wheel designed to keep you wanting more and a game that you cannot win as there's always some shiny new toy that you just have to have. Then comes the debt, the stress, the sleepless nights - all in the name of trying to keep up with the Jones's...
Rob's book isn't the fluffy arm around the shoulder and comforting "there there's" - it's the kick in the arse that we often need to wake up and ditch the bullshit and the maladaptive habits that keep you poor and unfulfilled.
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:
https://open.spotify.com/show/4aAdbPrTjEEnwco5jII65U?si=693a7408e31a46d2
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-harmony-time-to-talk/id1792776061
Check out Rob's work on the below links:
F*CK THE SCRIPT: How to Own Your $hit: A No-BS Self Help Book to Stop Caring What Others Think and Rebuild Your Life on Your Terms: McCarthy, R P: 9798263888534: Amazon.com: BooksR.P. "Rob" McCarthy (@FTS25) | Stanfckthescript (@fckthescript) | TikTokInstagram
Please don't let the title of the episode put you off - this is actually a story of hope. Today I'm joined by Mordy Gottlieb, chef-turned social worker turned therapist who works predominantly with men who are struggling in a number of ways and can't seem to find a way forward.
Mordy works on the premise that there is always hope - you just can't see it yet and through connections - along with often painful lessons - we can craft a life that is fulfilling, based upon self-worth and understanding what success means to you.
Mordy talks openly with me about his own journey - the shame, the self-fulfilling prophecies and the maladaptive behaviours that caused him to seek a path of turning that pain into strength.
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:
https://open.spotify.com/show/4aAdbPrTjEEnwco5jII65U?si=29320f2611e04376
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-harmony-time-to-talk/id1792776061
Check out Mordy's work on the links below:
https://youtu.be/l7ulLKNFE9c?si=5iuCSXkg6_ZDSma9
https://youtu.be/KZnjq5npqZM?si=JcZuLl4Sujy6nV8A
Today I'm joined by Stacey Niedenthol, an evidentiary medium, psychic and published writer. We talk about her work since learning of her particular gifts 11 years ago after convincing herself that she was potentially schizophrenic before receiving guidance that opened her eyes in a number of ways.
We discuss her journey from childhood to the present day, her troubled past, skepticism and not rising to negativity, parallels in everyday life and much more besides...
While I have never felt drawn to the spiritual realms in the same way as Stacey, throughout our conversation I find a great deal of overlap in both my personal and professional life alongside a new willingness to pay attention to that which is around me - both seen and unseen...
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:
https://open.spotify.com/show/4aAdbPrTjEEnwco5jII65U?si=34cd3feebfb64d8a
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-harmony-time-to-talk/id1792776061
Check out Stacey's work on the links below:
www.connectingtospirit.com
Today I'm joined by Joyce Holden Wheeler, owner and driving force behind Total Holistic Living, the company Joyce set up following startling discoveries in the aftermath of her husband becoming chronically ill.
In 2009, Joyce's husband began to feel ill and was becoming increasingly fatigued and unwell. Following a series of incorrect diagnoses and discussions with doctors who seemed unwilling to dig deeper, by chance they discovered the source of the problem and much more besides.
While looking into possible treatment options, Joyce became increasingly aware of the number of 'hidden toxins' within our food, cleaning products and hygiene items that are a staple in homes worldwide. Taking the decision to live a totally holistic life and promote a complete picture of health, Joyce and her family changed the way they ate, shopped and took care of themselves - and her husband's improving health gave further vindication of their decision.
Having begun her business, Joyce made it her mission to educate others on the damage they are unknowingly doing to their health, while seeking out producers and providers who align with these values and look to promote a lifestyle free of over-processed and increasingly toxic products.
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:
https://open.spotify.com/show/4aAdbPrTjEEnwco5jII65U?si=3bcf710bee3241ee
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-harmony-time-to-talk/id1792776061
To learn more about Joyce's work, click the links below:
HOME | Total Holistic LivinBlog | Total Holistic LivinFacebook
At the moment it feels like many of us are doing life hard, with much of what happens around us seemingly beyond our control. The cost of living crisis, unemployment, political turmoil and so on can leave us feeling more disconnected and struggling to deal with everyday issues.
Today I'm joined by Shelley Loader, manager at Community House, Whanganui and someone who regularly sees the best and worth in both human behaviour and the situations faced by many of the most vulnerable in our society.
Shelley freely admits that her passion for her work is something that impacts upon her but it is this drive to support both her community and services operating on a national level that drives her and while she may often return home exhausted, it is her love of people that keeps her motivated.
Shelley and I talk about how lack of dialogue, events like the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk, 'othering' in reporting and social media forums among other things can splinter relationships between those around us and create further division when unity is our most positive tool for wellbeing and social harmony.
Check out some of Shelley's work on the below links:
How personality shapes our approach to social justice - Shelley Loader - NZ Herald
The power of everyday role models in shaping community values – Shelley Loader - NZ HeraldOur different perspectives should strengthen, not divide – Shelley Loader - NZ HeraldWelcome to Community House – Supporting our communities together
I'm joined today by Michelle Steiner, who talks about her life having been diagnosed in kindergarten with dyscalculia, visual perception issues and limited hand dexterity.
Although being supported by family and involved professionals, Michelle was regularly told that she would be unable to excel academically due to her disabilities, despite an aptitude for reading and writing that marked her out from her peers. This was in conjunction with struggles to fit in socially and find her 'tribe' at a time of life when seeking to define our place in the world.
Having found a group of people with who she could connect and a strong desire to succeed rather than just accept the limitations placed upon her by others, Michelle succeeded in getting into university, completing her Bachelor's Degree, becoming a photographer and also a published writer.
Michelle's story is one of overcoming challenges and digging deep, while highlighting the importance of support, empathy and listening to the individual - the importance of taking someone on their qualities rather than just following accepted definitions shows us the power of belief in oneself, particularly when cheered on.
Check out Michelle's work on the links below:
Meet Michelle Steiner: Conquering Disabilities, Inspiring Many! ⋆ The Writing KingFacebookTurning You Can’t into I Did: Overcoming Barriers with Disabilities - Aspergers StudioWhen I'm 'Caught in the Act' of Having a Learning DisabilityAvailable on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:
https://open.spotify.com/show/4aAdbPrTjEEnwco5jII65U?si=d2d00e410fcc4e03
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-harmony-time-to-talk/id1792776061
Today I'm joined by Gill, who talks with me about a parents' worst nightmare - the loss of a child. Only in this instance, Catarina died In Utero at 40 weeks in avoidable circumstances.
Gill talks openly about the initial feeling that something was not right, the pain of discovery while expecting to give birth and the subsequent emotional, social and domestic impacts upon her life. Talking through her story of initially trying to remain strong and convincing herself that she was coping fine, through to excessive alcohol consumption and the realisation that she was on the brink of falling apart, Gill shows incredible fortitude in how she has faced the lowest point a parent could endure and come back brighter.
In memory of Catarina, who would have been 10 years old on 20th September.
For further information, please click links below:
Sands | Saving babies' lives. Supporting bereaved families.
Sands New Zealand - Pregnancy, Baby and Infant Loss Support, New Zealand
Baby Loss Awareness Week – Break the silence around baby loss
Wave of Light – Baby Loss Awareness Week
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:
https://open.spotify.com/show/4aAdbPrTjEEnwco5jII65U?si=cd86a02aa0f44f0f
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-harmony-time-to-talk/id1792776061
Today I'm joined by Roisin, another friend from home whose story will relate to many. Erin was born and things appeared to be well - she was a friendly, compliant child who was no trouble. Following some routine 'age and stage' assessments, Roisin began to feel that something was amiss, then at 3 years of age Erin was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Condition.
Like many, Roisin was unsure what this meant - primarily for Erin, but also for the rest of the family and so she set about educating herself while trying to understand her daughter's particular needs. There was also the realisation that this wasn't just a phase that would pass - it was a lifelong journey. There then followed struggles with funding for education and health provision, having to adapt her parenting styles following the birth of her second daughter and navigating daily challenges and successes.
Roisin talks openly and honestly, sharing her experiences and thoughts in the hope of demystifying some of the stigma and untruths circulated around neurodivergence, while appreciating her own growth as both a parent and as a person.
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
For more information, please click below:
(IPSEA) Independent Provider of Special Education AdviceNational Autistic Society
Following on from the success of our conversation in Episode 38, I'm rejoined by my emotional support Canadian Chelsea Powell for another deep dive on personal growth - this time starting with a look at the relational grief that comes from stepping out of a relationship.
As is often the case, the end of a relationship brings about intense feelings but as a society are we too quick to push forward without dealing with the underlying causes and emotions bubbling just beneath the surface? And if so, how will this impact us - in addition to how it will affect subsequent relationships?
Speaking from a perspective of honesty and genuine curiosity, Chelsea and I talk about our own difficult situations, the feeling of not wanting to cause the inevitable hurt, how not knowing oneself inevitably attracts "the shit" and lessons leant from life, doing hard things and Tinder among other things...
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Please like, follow, comment and share along with checking out my socials:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570245380684
(1) InstagramSocialHarmonyTalk (@socialharmonytalk) | TikTokCheck out Chelsea's work on the links below:
(1) Instagramhttps://open.spotify.com/show/0YhAbJpkjdQeaHQIQnco8I?si=d21ec1f5dd694eb4
I'm joined today by Johnathan to talk about his work with men who are struggling with chronic illnesses and compulsive behaviours - in particular addictions to porn, caffeine, binge eating and more.
Johnathan was himself an addict and for many years continued to circle the drain of rehab, 12-step programmes and relapse until - while struggling through the break-up of his marriage and COVID lockdown - learning about the Medical Medium and then applying the protocols of this as the bedrock of holistic healing.
We discuss healing the liver as a starting point for beginning the move towards improved inner health, grounding and the benefits of being in nature, erectile dysfunction and the mind/body connection, root causes of addiction and so much more.
To check out Johnathan's work, click below:
(2) InstagramJohnathan Richard - YouTubejohnathan_richard33 | Instagram | LinktreeAnd check out the Medical Medium below:
In today's episode I'm joined by Emily Wehrman, owner and CEO of Mastery in Love. Emily works with women to find or rediscover intimacy and create true, lasting love - starting with the self, in a holistic model that looks at the mind, body and central nervous system as a starting point.
Emily looks to "meet you where your healing is at" and have the sometimes taboo conversations that peel back the layers of our inauthentic 'shell' that we use to face the world but which denies us the true intimacy and connection that we seek. In a polarised society that tends to equate intimacy predominantly with sex, Emily's work is so valuable as a conduit for getting in touch with one's inner drives as well as examining how we connect with those around us.
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Check out Emily's work on the links below:
Emily Wehrman Mastery In Love | Sensuality/Sexuality, Awakening & Relationships - St. Louis, MO(2) InstagramFacebook
Today I'm joined by Victoria Lefebre - holistic midlife strategist, international best-selling author, podcaster and so much more. Victoria works with women who have reached the midlife point and are struggling to understand the changes they are facing - be they physical, hormonal, psychological or whatever has brought them to the present moment. Using her 'Chaos to Confidence' model to establish where things are and then moving forward to a place of self-assurance and clarity, Victoria provides support at a time of life when it is desperately needed.
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
https://open.spotify.com/show/4aAdbPrTjEEnwco5jII65U?si=a66a3d4866304034
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-harmony-time-to-talk/id1792776061
To check out Victoria's work, click the links below:
https://open.spotify.com/show/37KV92FtEx3ZbonL8yiy5O?si=c8926f8887ae45bd
Victoria L Women's Health StrategistFacebookChaos, Clarity, & Confidence: Finding YOU again: Lefebre, Victoria: 9798284176382: Amazon.com: Books
Today I'm joined by Maddie, who talks about her mental health struggles from the age of 4 and which have led her on a rollercoaster of psychosis, depression, mania and suicidality - much of which made worse my medical ineptitude and a system that makes recovery even harder.
Maddie talks openly and honestly about how life has been - and continues to be - a daily struggle but one which will not defeat her and inspires her to show up for herself as well as others, advocating for supports for those who need it the most.
To check out Maddie's work, click the link below:
www.jesupport.org
Today I'm joined by "Caty" who shares her story of a 33-year marriage to a dark tetrad narcissist and her subsequent journey to freedom from an abusive relationship.
The term narcissist is often used as a slur in modern parlance but what does it actually mean and what does it look/feel like to be so entangled with someone like this? "Caty" talks me through the traits that define someone with a narcissistic personality disorder, protecting her children throughout the course of the marriage, the steps taken to finally emancipate herself and much more.
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
To learn more about Caty's work, click the links below:
Cultivating Freedom#69 - A 33-Year Journey Through Narcissistic Abuse with Caty - The Metamorphosis Project | Podcast on Spotify
Today I'm joined by Annie Baker Atwood - a Reiki master, qualified hypnotist, former kindergarten teacher and an accomplished All-American sailor.
While our discussion was initially about reiki itself, this led on to a wider understanding of our own spirituality, gaining that extra 2%, the importance of being there in the moment and a great deal more - including a remote session between us to facilitate a joining of energies.
I left the conversation feeling like I had learned something, better in myself and privileged to have met such a fascinating woman - I hope this shines through and that you enjoy the episode.
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Check out Annie's work on the links below:
Red Boots Reiki, LLC - Remote Reiki, Reiki, Reiki Masterhttps://open.spotify.com/show/5hkzM6CQ1yPoXZvhAKnBwD?si=57fd688c6a804ca1
Today I'm joined by Steve McNamara - owner, operator and driving force behind the Wildman Revolution. For over a decade, Steve has been working with men who were disenfranchised, stuck, lost or just wanted to take life to that next step by helping them to unlock their inner power, rediscover their masculine energy and reclaim their role in society.
We talk about how society places expectations on men, moving on from maladaptive patterns of behaviour, masking with drink and drugs, those pivotal moments that spark change and so much more. Talking with Steve has been so encouraging for me personally and such a breath of fresh air, I really enjoyed seeing his enthusiasm for the wellbeing of men as well as his own growth.
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
To check out Steve and his work, click the links below:
HomeFacebookThe Wild Man Revolution Show - YouTube
https://open.spotify.com/show/6fVFdnGTk8eybvbPLSpWwO?si=KYlN5ou6Twqoj38_SxVA6A
Today I'm joined by Chelsea Powell - she's a Stress and Confidence Coach, Podcaster and self-confessed 'Boss Bitch' who doesn't play small.
Having been entrenched in a merry-go-round of feeling the need to achieve and do more, feeling unheard or dismissed, then blotting with excessive alcohol, Chelsea reached a point where she just knew that she wanted more than life was currently offering - and the change started within...
Inspiring, honest and willing to do the hard yards, Chelsea has built herself up - and quite literally when it comes to her house - into a self-employed businesswoman with inner confidence rooted in a renewed self of self-worth and genuine confidence that she shares with those around her and who work alongside her.
Meet Chelsea — The Deliberate One
https://open.spotify.com/show/0YhAbJpkjdQeaHQIQnco8I?si=823fc50fd40346fb
Chelsea - Podcast Host 🎙 + Stress & Confidence Coach
To see out Men's Mental Health Month, Johnny and I return to continue on from the previous conversation relating to wellbeing, communicating and seeking help as a man struggling in modern society.
Today we look more at the options available while suggesting possible ways of widening the net and making these services more accessible, finding your 'safe space' while cringing at the terminology, venting effectively and so much more.
Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.