In this week’s episode, I sit down with a Em, who’s navigating life with two SEN children.
We talk about the daily challenges, the battles to get the right support in schools, and the moments that make it all worthwhile.
She opens up about what it’s like to constantly advocate for her kids, the emotional toll it can take, and how she works to keep her own mental health strong along the way.
We also chat about the importance of raising awareness, breaking stigma, and celebrating the small wins that mean everything.
If you’re a parent, carer, teacher, or simply someone who wants to understand SEN better, this is an honest and heartfelt conversation you won’t want to miss.
#SENParenting #SpecialEducationalNeeds #ParentSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #SoItsNotJustMePodcast
This week, I'm joined once again by Jamie to talk about the role music plays in mental health - and how being part of a band has shaped his emotional wellbeing.
Together, we explore how music can become a lifeline through tough times, the unique connection that comes from creating with others, and the ways performance, creativity, and sound can all support healing.
If you’ve ever turned to music for comfort, or felt a song express what words couldn’t, this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen now to discover how harmony, rhythm, and community can lift your spirit, one song at a time.
This week’s episode is exactly what it sounds like — we’re chatting about everything!
From irrational pet peeves to 00s fashion disasters, guilty pleasures, and random nonsense, it’s a cosy catch-up full of laughter and relatable chaos.
Grab your tea (or wine, we don’t judge) and tune in for an easy listen that’ll make you smile.
This week I’m joined by Lisa, who uses painting and creativity to support others on their wellbeing journey. Lisa began her business during COVID, creating workshops that bring people together through art. We talk about how creativity can ease stress, why making space for art matters, and the power of community in difficult times.
Join us as we explore how art can become a tool for self-care, healing, and connection.
If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the channel for more conversations that remind us we’re not alone.
This week I’m joined by not one, but two guests as we dive into the world of dating apps — the highs, the lows, and the downright cringe. From ghosting and awkward first messages to surprisingly sweet connections, we’re sharing our real stories about what it’s like to date in the age of swiping.
We also explore how dating apps can affect our mental health, the pressure to present ourselves online, and how to set boundaries while still staying open to connection.
✨ Whether you’ve found love online or sworn off the apps forever, this episode will remind you: it’s not just you.
🎙️ New episodes every week.
💬 Join the conversation on socials @soitsnotjustme
#DatingApps #ModernDating #SoItsNotJustMePodcast #MentalHealthAndDating #PodcastCommunity
In this episode Craig is back to discuss what it means to be a man in today’s world. He shares his journey as a father raising a daughter, the role community and sport (jujitsu and five-a-side football) play in his mental health, and the challenges men face as gender roles continue to shift.
We ask the difficult questions:
- Where do men stand now that traditional roles have changed?
- Are men truly supported in their mental health?
- How do fatherhood, friendships, and community shape modern masculinity?
This is an open, honest discussion about identity, balance, and belonging - and why men might feel “lost” in 2025.
👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to the channel for more episodes.
In this episode, Catie is back to share her experience with a side of mom guilt that doesn’t get talked about enough - the guilt of loving your career.
After having two children and preparing to return to work, she’s realized that part of her is excited. She misses her job, enjoys working, and thrives in her professional life. But with that joy comes guilt - guilt for looking forward to adult conversations, coffee in peace, and feeling like herself again.
We explore the complex emotions that come with being a mother who also loves her career, why that’s okay, and how she's reconnecting with herself in the process - finding her pink in the middle of motherhood and ambition.
This one’s for anyone who’s ever felt torn between love for their children and love for their work - and needed to hear that both can exist side by side.
Put the kettle on and join us for an honest, permission-giving chat about real life, real identity, and letting go of the pressure to be everything, all at once.
#MomGuilt #WorkingMum #CareerAndMotherhood #FindingMyPink #SoItsNotJustMe #PodcastForMothers #MentalHealthForMums #ReturningToWork #WorkingMomTruths #HonestMotherhood #RealTalkPodcast #SelfCompassion #WomenWhoWork #GuiltFreeMotherhood #IdentityAfterKids
In this week’s episode I’m joined by Tina who shares her story of going through a divorce after decades of marriage and raising two children. We talk about what it’s like to end a long-term relationship, the emotional highs and lows, and the surprising moments of clarity along the way.
She opens up about navigating family dynamics with adult children, finding strength in unexpected places, and what it really means to rediscover yourself after a marriage ends. Whether you’ve been through divorce, know someone who has, or you’re simply curious about the healing process, this episode is a reminder that you're not alone—and that starting over can be a beginning, not just an end.
🧠 Topics include:
💬 “At first I didn’t know who I was without him… but now I’m learning I was never lost, just buried.”
🔗 Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode with a friend, and visit the website for the free companion worksheet and journal.
#DivorceRecovery #MentalHealth #LifeAfterDivorce #SoItsNotJustMe #Healing #WomensVoices #DivorceSupport #PodcastForWomen
Sports are for everyone. Yet for so many women, being a fan comes with extra pressure: the stereotypes, the gatekeeping, and the constant need to “prove” we belong.
This week, Laura is back to talk about the stigma women face as sports fans, the frustrating “quiz culture” we’re put through, and how our love of the game is often dismissed. We also dive into the rise of women’s sports and what true inclusion in fandom could look like.
Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or just starting to love a sport, this episode will remind you: you don’t have to justify your passion.
🎧 Listen now for real talk, laughs, and a reminder that you are not alone.
#WomensSports #SportsFans #SoItsNotJustMePodcast #BonusEpisode #podcast
In this episode I’m joined by Jess who is sharing her journey of losing weight with the help of Mounjaro, a medication increasingly being used for weight management. We talk about what led her to choose this path, what the process was like, and the emotional highs and lows along the way.
She opens up about the judgment she’s faced, the misconceptions around weight loss injections, and how she’s reclaimed her health—on her own terms. If you’ve ever considered weight loss medication, felt stuck in your journey, or struggled with body image and stigma, this one’s for you.
💬 We cover:
– Why she chose Mounjaro
– What no one tells you about injectable medications
– Mental health and body image
– Stigma around "quick fixes"
– What support really looks like on a health journey
🔗 Connect with us:
Instagram: @soitsnotjust.me
Email: joanna@soitsnotjust.me (for guest inquiries)
#SoItsNotJustMe #WeightLossJourney #Mounjaro #WeightLossSupport #BodyImage #MentalHealthMatters #GLP1 #MounjaroJourney #HealthNotShame #PodcastForWomen #RealTalkPodcast #WeightLossMedication #StigmaFree #WellnessPodcast #SelfWorth #HealthOnMyTerms
This week on So, It’s Not Just Me, Catie is returning to share her powerful story of growing up with a parent who struggled with addiction. From missed milestones to moments of silent strength, she opens up about how her childhood shaped her teenage years, early adulthood, and her life now as a wife and mom.
We talk about what it means to set healthy boundaries, how to navigate emotional triggers during life’s big events, and how she’s breaking the cycle for her own children. This conversation is honest, emotional, and full of wisdom — especially for those who know what it’s like to love someone with an addiction.
💛 Whether this is your experience or someone you love is living it, we hope this episode reminds you: you're not alone, and your healing matters.
📘 Catie’s mom has also written a book about her own journey through addiction and recovery. You can check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C12D3F5Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_5
In this episode, I'm joined by a guest whose story is a testament to the strength of chosen family and the resilience of the human spirit. Raised by his great aunt and godmother, he shares how powerful female figures became his anchors through an unconventional upbringing.
We explore the emotional complexities of sibling relationships shaped by being raised in different homes, and how those early dynamics influence connection and trust later in life.
He opens up about experiencing multiple devastating losses in a short period—and the trauma, perspective shifts, and personal growth that followed. Together, we discuss the vital role of coping mechanisms, the importance of mental health support, and how finding community can help pull us through life’s toughest moments.
In this week’s episode, we're chatting with the fabulous Ken Lambert, who takes us behind the scenes of his journey into the world of drag—from discovering his love for performing, to creating a fierce persona that lets him shine in every sense of the word. He spills the tea on what it's like to run a local gay bar, the highs and lows of owning your identity, and how stepping into heels helped him step into his power.
We talk relationships, chosen family, and the not-so-glam side of dealing with hate and stigma—and how he handles it all with grace and a good sense of humor.
Oh, and we’re not forgetting our history queens either! We’re shouting out William Dorsey Swann, the first known drag queen (yes, way back in the 1800s!), and UK legend Lily Savage, who brought sparkle and sass to the stage long before RuPaul hit our screens.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like behind the wig and lashes—or just need a reminder that being your true self is more than enough—this one’s for you. 💖
🎧 Tune in now and remember: you’re not alone, and it’s okay to take up space like the glittery badass you are. 👑
#DragQueen #DragLife #ServingRealness #LGBTQStories #MentalHealthChat #ChosenFamilyFeels #DragIsHealing #WilliamDorseySwann #DannyLaRue #SoItsNotJustMe #DragCommunity #BeExtra #QueerVoices #SupportLocalDrag #SafeSpaces #DragIsArt #GlitterAndGrit #AuthenticAF #DragPodcast #SlayAllDay
🎂 We made it… ONE WHOLE YEAR!
That’s 365 days, countless cups of tea, amazing guests, deep chats, lots of laughs, and maybe a few tears (the good kind). In this special birthday episode, I’m throwing on my party hat (metaphorically… maybe) and celebrating with YOU—because we did this together.
Expect:
🎉 A trip down memory lane
🎧 The bloopers and best bits
🥳 Listener love
🔮 A cheeky look at what’s coming next
🍾 And a whole lot of gratitude wrapped in confetti
Whether you've been here since day one or just wandered into the party—thank you. Truly. This cosy corner of the internet wouldn’t be the same without you. Now grab your fave drink, put your feet up, and let’s celebrate!
We’re back—and what better way to return than on World Book Day with a deep dive into the world of reading, BookTok, and the growing love of romantasy books!
In this episode I brought back Laura because not only is she loads of fun, she has helped me reignite my love for reading! We're going to discuss how her love for reading helped her through tough times, and introduced her to genres she never expected to love! We chat about how reading impacts mental health, why romantic fantasy is dominating bookshelves, and how social media is shaping the way we read.
We also talk about:
-Reading challenges and how they keep us motivated
-Why BookTok is helping bookstores thrive again
-The mental escape books offer when life feels overwhelming
Whether you're a long-time book lover or just getting started, this episode will remind you that it's never too late to fall back in love with stories—and that you're definitely not alone.
🎙️ Welcome back—it's good to be here.
#SoItsNotJustMe #PodcastRelease #WorldBookDay #BookTok #RomantasyReads #MentalHealthAwareness #ReadingIsHealing #PodcastCommunity #BooksOfTikTok #NewEpisode
This week I’m joined by Rachel, a police officer, mum, and full-time human being trying to keep it all together (relatable, right?).
We talk about:
What it’s really like working in the police force
How she balances high-pressure shifts with family life
The mental load of being the “strong one”
Why chasing waterfalls and spending time in nature has become her go-to for peace
The surprising moments that have shaped her life and mindset
Whether you're juggling a demanding job, parenting chaos, or just looking for a little calm in the storm — this one’s for you.
💬 And remember — if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, you’re not alone.
What happens when you choose not to have kids - and people really don’t get it?
In this episode, I’m joined by a guest who’s living her best child-free life - and doing it with confidence, joy, and absolutely no regrets.
We talk about why she made the decision, how people have reacted, and the surprising freedom and happiness that’s come from going against the grain. She’s still an amazing part of the lives of her niece, nephew, and stepchildren - just without the 2am feedings and constant school pickups.
This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt judged for not fitting the mold, who’s tired of hearing “you’ll change your mind,” or who simply wants to celebrate living life your way.
✨ Topics include:
Family pressure and societal expectations
Why choosing child-free doesn’t mean choosing loneliness
The joy of saying “no thanks” to the norm
Finding fulfillment in other relationships
Protecting your mental health by living authentically
💬 It’s honest, cozy, and a reminder that whatever you choose - you’re not alone.
#SoItsNotJustMe #ChildFreeByChoice #MentalHealthAwareness #UnfilteredConversations #PodcastCommunity #WomenWithoutKids #FreedomToChoose #youdoyou
This week, I’m joined by a truly inspiring guest who shares his raw and powerful journey through health anxiety, addiction, and recovery.
What started as health-related panic spiraled into a life-threatening alcohol addiction—drinking neat vodka from morning to night. He opens up about the moment he was told he had less than 24 hours to live, the turning point that saved him, and how he’s now been sober for over four years.
He also talks about how he used his experiences to help others, founding S62, a support group for people struggling with addiction that now has lottery funding, and creating MindFest, a music festival raising awareness and funds for mental health.
This is an episode about pain, resilience, rebuilding your life, and the incredible power of turning suffering into support for others.
💬 We cover:
🎧 Whether you’ve struggled yourself or supported someone through addiction or anxiety, this episode is a reminder: you’re not alone—and it’s never too late to rewrite your story.
This episode is one I never thought I’d release. Originally, I planned to share our fertility journey and the excitement of being pregnant, joined by a wonderful friend who had also recently discovered she was expecting. But life took an unexpected turn.
At 17 weeks, we said goodbye to our baby boy. Recording this episode was never part of the plan; it was more of a self-healing exercise while waiting to see my therapist—a way to process the unimaginable. Yes, I cry a lot during this episode, and I may not have all the words or answers, but it’s raw, honest, and real.
The heart of this podcast has always been to let people know they’re not alone. If you’ve experienced a similar loss, I hope this episode resonates with you and offers a sense of connection in a difficult time.
I don’t expect this episode to get many listens—after all, who wants to hear someone cry for 30 minutes? But if you do, thank you for your time, empathy, and understanding.
As always, my inbox is open. If you need someone to talk to, vent to, or share your story with, I’m here to listen. 💛
In this episode Keanan and I sit down and chat about how he has transformed his life from growing up in Doncaster, England, to building a successful career in New York. As a musician, fashion designer, and author, he shares his unique story of how punk rock shaped his creative journey, both musically and stylistically.
We dive deep into his experiences working with legends like David Bowie and the Sex Pistols, how the rebellious spirit of the 1970s punk rock movement grabbed his attention, and the impact it continues to have on his designs today.
Join us as we explore the challenges of moving from a small town to a big city, balancing multiple creative roles, and how he stays true to his roots while navigating the ever-changing fashion and music industries. Whether you're a fan of punk rock or curious about the creative process, this episode will inspire and entertain!