In this moving episode, Paula sits down with Claire Evans, a passionate advocate for well-being, creativity, and authentic connection. Drawing from her deep background in mindfulness, meditation, and community engagement, She opens up about her transformative journey—one that has inspired being part of powerful initiatives like The Yellow Book and Rethink Your Mind. Through their heartfelt conversation, Claire shares how creativity became both a refuge and a source of strength during her experiences with mental health challenges, including her journey with alopecia and the profound loss of a loved one to suicide. She also reflects on the enduring bonds that transcend the physical world, revealing how Love and Spirit remain interwoven even through loss. Together, they explore how connection, self-empowerment, and artistic expression can help us heal, rediscover who we are, and build stronger, more compassionate communities. Key Takeaways Connection transforms: Disconnection often fuels anxiety and depression, but fostering authentic connection—with ourselves and others—can be deeply healing. Creativity heals: Creative expression allows us to externalize our emotions, rediscover our identity, and reconnect with our sense of purpose and inner power. Community nurtures growth: By opening spaces for honest communication and shared experience, we create environments where transformation and mutual support can flourish. Love transcends separation: Claire’s story reminds us that the bonds of love endure beyond the physical, offering comfort, growth, and a deeper sense of unity with those who’ve gone before us. Wholeness matters: Mental health cannot be separated from overall well-being—it is woven into every aspect of our physical, emotional, and spiritual lives. BEST MOMENTS "What drives me most of all is connection. When challenges come your way, you disconnect from yourself and you start looking outside of yourself." "I often call myself a conscious reminder. I'm just really here to remind people that they have the power to be whatever they want to be." "I feel I've had a real calling just very recently to start to create that space for others, to find that beauty of who they are." "I think the beauty is to remember themselves and then they've just come back to life." "Neither Pete or I really believe in mental health. We just believe there is only health and well-being as one." ABOUT THE HOST Meet Paula, the inspiring and grounded force behind a transformative Teacher Training Institute, where coaches and wellness professionals find their wings. As an entrepreneur, author, and speaker, she champions the fusion of science and spirituality. Drawing from thirty years as a Mindfulness Meditation Teacher, HR Director, Intuitive and Transformational Coach, Paula's mission is clear: to spark transformation within you. Whether you seek professional excellence or personal fulfilment, her guidance lights the path to your highest potential. Join the journey, where each moment is infused with the promise of growth and inspired living. www.smartfoundations.co.uk This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/