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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, I chat with Shahd, founder of Peace is the Song — a community-based event that brings people together to share their art through spoken word, music, poetry, and more. Shahd is a published poet and author using her platform to foster community, connection, and empowerment.
We discuss:
Shahd’s work demonstrates how art can heal, unite and create spaces for marginalised voices to be heard and valued.
Tune in to hear her inspiring story, and let us know what you think - your support helps keep these important conversations alive! :)
Connect with Shahd:
Instagram:
@shahdmah850
And here! https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/shahdmahnavipoetrybook?srsltid=AfmBOooVG3P7p1z5LjSK_KrhjAJm-gXBIHRPwtcC8RCSGCEW2GWTpxpT
Connect with Danielle:
Instagram:
@danielle_phoenixrising
toolsfortoughtimes888@gmail.com
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In this urgent solo episode, I return to the unfolding catastrophe in Gaza. As the genocide intensifies, it is clear that we can no longer participate in a system that funds, arms, and enables it. We must shut it all down. With a Global Blackout.
I share updates from the ground, my personal reflections, and the next steps of global mobilisation. I introduce the week-long global blackout already underway, a coordinated mass refusal to engage in business as usual. No work. No school. No social media. No spending. No fuel. No consent. Together, we’re using the power of absence to force the world to listen.
This is more than protest. This is strategic disruption.
Our demands are clear:
- An immediate end to the genocide
- Full access to food, water, medical aid
- The withdrawal of IOF/IDF from Palestine
- Justice and liberation for Gaza, and for all colonised peoples
And these are just the starting point. Everything that is happening is because of Capitalism and Imperialism. We MUST rise up. We must NOT comply. WE MUST TAKE THE POWER BACK!
We can make an impact. But only if we act as a global force.
The revolution has begun....
Join us on Signal! Drop me a dm on Instagram to get started: @danielle_phoenixrising.
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This ep speaks for itself. Listen. Follow me on Insta for updates on the mobilisation I mention.
THIS IS WHERE WE RISE UP.
GAZA NEEDS US MORE THAN EVER BEFORE.
In hope, peace, love and solidarity x
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In this powerful and deeply human episode of Tools for Tough Times, I speak with Farah, a 19-year-old student currently living in Gaza. Farah has lived through the unimaginable, displaced more than 20 times in her short life, she has survived airstrikes, mass bombings, and the deaths of family and community members.
This conversation offers a raw, unfiltered look into the lived reality of a genocide, or as Farah has labelled it, a Holocaust. Farah shares what it means to grow up under occupation, to wake up under rubble, and to experience loss after loss - while still daring to dream of a better future.
Together, we explore:
•What daily life in Gaza is like for young people
•The personal toll of displacement, grief, and survival
•How Farah holds on to hope and vision in the face of horror
•The words that keep her going, and the dreams she refuses to let die
Farah’s voice cuts through the noise with clarity and heart. Her story is one of resilience, resistance, and a refusal to be silenced.
If you listen to just one story this week....let it be hers.
Farah and her family literally have nothing, if you are able to, she'd be grateful if you could donate to her GoFundMe for basic food, water and medical supplies: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-farah-support-her-family-and-fulfill-her-dreams-in-gaza
💬 Connect with Us:
Instagram -
Farah - @fara7_kmal
Danielle - @danielle_phoenixrising
@toolsfortoughtimes
Thanks and see you next week :)
Peace x
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Series 2 begins with an overview of what’s to come: a continued mixture of guests, as in Series 1, but with a heavier focus this time on voices from Gaza; people living through the genocide, and those who have been forced to evacuate. These are accounts that speak directly to the realities on the ground and in exile: urgent, unfiltered, and necessary.
In this episode, I also reflect on joining the Global March to Gaza in mid-June, a high-stakes journey marked by twists and turns, solidarity, confrontation, and serious consequences for some. It offers a glimpse into a deeply charged moment that shaped the path ahead.
Series 2 holds space for a range of conversations, but at its core is a commitment to truth-telling, resistance, and centring those whose voices are most at risk of being erased.
Thanks for being here.
Instagram:
@danielle_phoenixrising
@toolsfortoughtimes
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In this Season 1 finale of Tools for Tough Times, I reflect on what this first season has taught me - about resilience, connection, and what really matters.
I share where I’m at personally, how grief has shaped my direction, and why I’m no longer waiting to make the impact I came here to make. The time is now!
Season 2 will bring new voices and deep conversations - from people navigating global crises like homelessness, racism, and war, to guests whose personal journeys through music, food, and healing will be impactful, powerful and important.
This podcast is becoming a platform for social change and human stories of strength. I can't wait to share it with you.
Bye for now and see you on Season 2! Like and follow to be the first to know when it drops.
D x
Let's connect on Instagram:
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
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In this compelling episode, we hear the extraordinary story of John McAvoy, a man who went from a life of high-stakes crime to breaking world records and becoming a professional Ironman athlete. Once one of Britain’s most wanted armed robbers, John was sentenced to life in a high-security prison. It was there, in a cell built for punishment, that he discovered purpose. After the tragic death of a close friend, John began to reassess his choices. Turning to fitness, he started training on a prison rowing machine, where he uncovered an astonishing natural ability, going on to break multiple British and world records in indoor rowing, all while still behind bars.
Since his release, John has become a leading voice in the world of endurance sport and criminal justice reform. Now a Nike-sponsored athlete and Ironman triathlete, he shares his story to inspire change and prove that transformation is always possible.
He is the founder of the Alpine Run Project, a powerful initiative that takes young people from the streets to the peaks, using mountain running to build resilience, purpose and community. John's work now spans schools, prisons and global platforms, advocating for sport as a force for personal and social change.
This was a mind-blowing and SUPER inspiring conversation. Hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed recording the ep!
📚 Resources:
📨 Connect with John:
📨 Connect with Danielle:
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
Email: toolsfortoughtimes888@gmail.com
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In this powerful and vulnerable conversation, I’m joined by rapper, TEDx speaker, and mental health advocate Shocka. Shocka opens up about his journey through the mental health system, including being sectioned three times, and the deep transformation that’s unfolded in his life since.
We talk about the challenges he faced while balancing a music career with his mental health struggles, including the turning point that came after a trip to Ibiza when things began to spiral. Shocka shares openly about his experiences with medication, the loss of his mum, and the central role his faith has played in his healing.
Now thriving in his music, advocacy, and life in general, Shocka is using his platform to dismantle stigma around mental health.
His book A Section of My Life and his Instagram video series A Section of Your Life are shining a light on the realities of being sectioned, while offering hope and solidarity to others walking this path.
Also….don’t miss his series “Shocka Sunday”, where he shares his journey through powerful and articulate verses with music.
This is an important listen for anyone interested in mental health, resilience, and the power of turning pain into purpose. I was deeply inspired by Shocka, and I know you will be too.
Resources & Links:
•Follow Shocka on Instagram: @shocka_artist
•Get his book A Section of My Life: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Section-My-Life-Shocka/dp/1915680085/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UITs3Nvqle3Jx08Qya_4fK3lx8UUGRLCiBdi0VTBu-s.Cki7Pn20BlNe7Cmc3RGiedf0RtWuNeMqP6SPRbSV3RU&dib_tag=se&keywords=a+section+of+my+life&qid=1746356917&sr=8-1
•Watch his TEDx Talk: https://tedxlondon.com/speaker/shocka/
Connect with Danielle:
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
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In this episode, I chat with singer / songwriter, motivational speaker and life coach Jasmine Knight who takes us through her incredible journey of overcoming trauma, discovering self-love, and ultimately transforming her life in ways she never thought possible. She opens up about the difficult times in her life, where she found herself surrounded by unsavoury people and situations, all stemming from not having fully healed yet. Jasmine explains how unhealed wounds can attract more negativity, but through deep self-love and healing, she was able to catapult herself into a future that exceeded her wildest dreams.
Jasmine’s journey of self-discovery has also involved a lifelong connection to creativity. She talks about how, from a young age, writing poetry helped her express the deep emotions she carried. This love of writing eventually evolved into songwriting, and she now collaborates with music producers to bring her music to life. Music became a key part of her healing process, and she speaks passionately about how it’s shaped her personal growth and empowerment.
A significant part of her journey has also included plant medicine, which she credits with helping her find clarity and further her healing process. Jasmine describes how these experiences have guided her in her mission to help others, positioning herself as an "expert by experience" – someone who has walked the difficult path from trauma to thriving, and now helps others do the same.
By embracing her own healing, Jasmine has not only transformed her life but is also committed to supporting others on their own journeys of self-love and empowerment. As a life coach, she brings this passion and understanding into her work, helping people discover their true potential.
We end with some giggles :) Chuckling about me randomly ending up in one of Jasmine’s DnB videos as a background raver!
This episode has it all! Depth, profound insights, creativity, and laughter. Hope you LOVE it as much as we enjoyed recording it x
Connect with Jasmine:
@jasmineknightuk
Connect with Danielle
Instagram:
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-cooper-6a14018/
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In this episode of Tools for Tough Times, I’m joined by Scott – a thoughtful, creative soul who’s been alcohol-free for 10 years and is the founder of Arclett, a community space for people who are sober or just curious about living without alcohol.
We talk through Scott’s personal journey – from early influences and social drinking habits to the moment he decided to make a change. He shares how joining a gym, picking up photography, and finding meaning outside of drinking helped him completely shift his lifestyle and mindset.
We also dive into the mental health impact of alcohol (even if you don’t feel “dependent”), how hard it can be to deal with the stigma around sobriety, and how the narrative around not drinking is finally starting to change. Social media and spaces like Arclett are helping people feel less alone and more empowered to question their relationship with alcohol – whatever that looks like.
This conversation is honest, inspiring and full of gentle encouragement – whether you’re exploring sober curiosity for the first time or you’ve been on this path a while. Scott brings a really grounded perspective on how to build a fulfilling, connected life without alcohol – and how community plays a massive role in that journey.
A few things we get into:
If you’ve ever felt curious about changing your relationship with alcohol or just want to hear a real, relatable story about personal growth and community, this one’s for you.
Connect with Georgina
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/arclett/
Website:
https://www.arclett.com/
@arclett
@scottwoolley_
Connect with Danielle
Instagram:
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-cooper-6a14018/
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In this raw and unedited solo episode, I share where I’m really at. I recorded this on a walk, barefoot, in the midst of deep grief, after losing three people close to me in the past six months, including my mum.
This episode isn’t polished. It’s about being honest in the middle of the mess, without trying to fix or reframe anything. I talk about reconnecting with my mum before she passed, the pain of rupture and the power of repair, and how sometimes nervous system tools just aren’t enough…..we need people, we need nature, and most of all, we need to connect with ourselves.
If you’re grieving too, or going through the ‘rupture’ part of a relationship, or just tired of pretending you’re okay when you’re not, this one’s for you. And even if you're not, you may be able to relate still.
Thank you for being here. For witnessing. For listening.
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In this ep, I chat with coach and strategist Georgina, about her journey through the corporate world, and the challenges she has faced with burnout. Georgina opens up about her experiences with mental health, the importance of self-kindness, and the damaging effects of toxic work environments. We explore the early signs of burnout, the vital role of compassion in the workplace, and practical strategies for navigating high pressure situations. Georgina highlights the need for self-awareness and the ability to prioritise in leadership roles, especially when it comes to understanding both team capacity and client needs.
Our conversation also dives into the power of collaboration in problem solving, particularly within consultancy settings. She shares how her experience with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, has shaped her relationship with work, often leading to overworking and burnout. This lived experience is now a key part of her coaching approach, allowing her to support others who may be navigating similar challenges.
She takes us through her Procrastination Breaker Framework, which encourages finding joy in your work and celebrating small wins along the way. Throughout the episode, Georgina offers thoughtful, practical advice for managing burnout and reminds us of the profound role kindness plays in coaching, leadership and personal growth.
00:00 – Navigating Mental Health: Daily Non-Negotiables
02:34 – Georgina’s Corporate Journey and Burnout Experiences
06:20 – Understanding Burnout: Causes and Realisations
09:39 – Toxic Work Environments: How to Spot the Signs
12:23 – Compassion in the Workplace: Responding to Emotional Outbursts
15:27 – The Turning Point: Recognising Burnout in Real Time
18:20 – The Recovery Journey: Healing and Moving Forward
20:51 – Thriving in High Pressure Environments: Practical Strategies
22:59 – The Power of Collaborative Problem Solving
26:21 – Neurodivergence and Burnout: Georgina’s Experience with ADHD
29:01 – Introducing the Procrastination Breaker Framework
36:15 – Practical Advice for Overcoming Burnout
40:48 – The Role of Coaching and Meaningful Connection
Connect with Georgina
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgina-shute/
Website:
@kindtwocoach
Connect with Danielle
Instagram:
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-cooper-6a14018/
We hope you LOVE this ep! Let us know what you think by following, subscribing, commenting, or leaving a review :)
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, Nick shares his profound journey through sobriety, detailing his early experiences with alcohol in childhood, the escalation of his substance use, and the eventual realisation that led him to commit to sobriety. He discusses the challenges faced during early sobriety, the importance of community support, and how he turned his experiences into a podcast to help others navigate their own journeys. Nick emphasises the need for coping strategies and the reality of facing emotions without substances.
In this conversation, we delve into the journey of sobriety, emphasising the importance of accountability, community, and self-reflection. We discuss various practices that aid in recovery, such as gratitude, meditation, and rediscovering creativity. The conversation highlights the transformative power of sobriety, not only in personal growth but also in finding purpose through helping others. Nick shares his experiences and insights on how sobriety has positively impacted his life, relationships, and overall well-being.
Have you ever questioned your relationship with alcohol? What do you think would happen if you gave it up, even for a while?
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Mental Health and Sobriety
02:56 – Nick’s Journey Through Childhood and Alcohol
05:49 – The Escalation of Alcohol Use
08:47 – The Introduction of Other Substances
11:56 – The Cycle of Addiction and Self-Destruction
15:01 – The Turning Point: A Moment of Clarity
17:48 – The Commitment to Sobriety
21:09 – Challenges of Early Sobriety
23:53 – Building a Supportive Community
27:06 – Creating a Podcast and Sharing the Journey
29:58 – Coping Strategies and Overcoming Adversity
30:22 – The Journey to Sobriety: Accountability and Community
33:11 – The Importance of Internal Work and Self-Reflection
36:32 – Practices for a Fulfilling Sobriety: Gratitude and Meditation
39:31 – Rediscovering Play and Creativity in Sobriety
44:10 – Transforming Passion into Purpose: Helping Others
51:28 – The Benefits of Sobriety: Intuition and Presence
Connect with Nick:
Follow Nick on Instagram: @getsoberwithnick
Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-o%E2%80%99shea-2146541bb/
Nick’s Linktree which includes how to join his community: https://linktr.ee/gswn?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=90f490cf-32c8-48ab-ba4c-a50257004fff
Connect with me:
Follow me on instagram:
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
I hope you enjoy this ep….let me know by posting a review and don’t forget to hit that follow button 🙂
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In this episode, I sit down with rugby legend Jamie Peacock to dive deep into the remarkable journey of his career. From battling imposter syndrome at his very first trial to becoming one of the greatest British rugby league players of all time, Jamie’s story is one of resilience, leadership, mental toughness, and vulnerability.
I have always been very intrigued by Jamie's story, so I wanted to get into the nuts and bolts of it all; what challenges he faced, how he navigated them and ultimately became the ‘crème de la crème’ of the rugby league realm! We walk through the timeline of his career, from his time at Bradford Bulls (1999–2005) and Leeds Rhinos (2006–2015), where he won multiple Super League titles and World Club Challenges. Jamie also captained both Great Britain and England, leading his country in World Cups and Four Nations tournaments. His incredible achievements include winning the 2003 Man of Steel award and playing a pivotal role in Leeds’ 2015 treble-winning season.
Beyond the accolades, Jamie opens up about the challenges he faced, the mindset that carried him through adversity, and how emotional vulnerability can be a powerful asset in sport. His insights into leadership, resilience, and mental fortitude are invaluable for anyone looking to overcome self-doubt and push their limits.
Jamie now focuses a significant portion of his work on team-building, leadership development, and performance coaching in the corporate world. Using his background as a top athlete and team leader, he helps businesses build stronger, more effective teams by drawing parallels between the sports world and corporate environments.
Key Topics Covered:
Connect with Jamie:
Follow Jamie Peacock on Instagram: @jamiepeacock10
Jamie’s book: No White Flag
Jamie’s website: https://www.jamiepeacock.co.uk
Connect with me:
Follow me on Instagram: @daniellecooperofficial and @toolsfortoughtimes
Subscribe for more inspiring stories and leave a review & share your thoughts!
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In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Emma Marie Cole, who shares her journey of embracing singlehood, healing, and thriving on her own terms. Emma gets real about the loneliness that can come with being single, the power of therapy in working through self-worth and inner child wounds, and why she hasn’t dated in a year, and is absolutely thriving because of it.
We dive into:
- The emotional challenges of being single & how to navigate loneliness
- How therapy helped her unpack self-worth & inner child wounds
- The importance of community & building meaningful connections with other single women
- Putting yourself out there to meet new people and make new connections
- The power of solo holidays & spiritual growth
- Why NOT settling is the ultimate act of self-love
- The downsides of dating apps & what to do instead
Emma also shares about Soul Sisterhood, the empowering community she’s created to help single women connect, grow, and thrive together.
Connect with Emma on Instagram and TikTok on: @emma.marie.cole
If you loved this episode, share it with a friend, and let’s continue the conversation!
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In this episode, I sit down with Business Psychologist Andy to explore his incredible journey from debilitating chronic pain to full recovery. After a severe back injury left him unable to move, he was told by one professional that he’d always live with pain. But another expert shared a different perspective - one that changed everything.
We discuss:
•The critical role of physical rehabilitation in healing chronic injuries
•How the mind-body connection influences pain and recovery
•The power of perspective and belief in overcoming health challenges
•How Andy rewired his brain and body to move beyond pain and thrive
Andy’s story is an inspiring reminder that healing is possible - even when the odds seem stacked against you. Whether you’re navigating chronic pain, injury recovery, or simply looking for insights into resilience and the power of the mind-body connection, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.
Connect with Andy on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-hiles-business-psychologist/
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
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In this episode, I chat with the wonderful Kev from Breatheolution about his powerful journey into breathwork and cold water therapy. After years dealing with addiction and ADHD, Kev stumbled upon the transformative power of the breath and cold exposure. What started as a personal healing practice evolved into his work as a cold water facilitator and coach, helping others experience the same profound benefits.
We explore:
Kev shares his deep knowledge and personal experiences, offering valuable insights into how breath and cold can be powerful tools for healing and transformation.
IInstagram: @breatheolution
There are many resources and ways to work with Kev via his LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/breatheolution?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=15a427f7-053f-4fba-9876-19326c5bcd6c
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share, and leave a review. It really helps support the podcast.
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In this powerful episode, I sit down with Maria, an EMDR therapist and integrative counsellor, to explore her journey from struggling with extreme mental health challenges due to trauma, to becoming a mental health professional dedicated to healing, self-improvement and helping others along the way.
We dive deep into:
Maria’s story is a testament to resilience, growth, and the power of therapy in mental health recovery. Whether you’re on your own healing journey, exploring self-improvement, working to overcome trauma, or embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration to support your path forward.
To connect with Maria:
Instagram: @sober_onlife_therapy
Website: https://mgintegrativecounselling.co.uk/
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
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In this episode I speak with the super inspiring Alex, whose journey of healing and transformation after an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Initially living a hectic, high-stress life and managing undiagnosed ADHD, Alex never expected a routine breast check to reveal cancer. But that shocking diagnosis became the catalyst for a complete transformation - mentally, physically, and energetically.
We discuss:
This conversation is packed with insights about the mind-body connection, the power of holistic healing, and the importance of taking charge of your health. Alex’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the profound impact of healing on every level - mind, body, and spirit.
Now, Aelx’s mission is to change the way people view symptoms and healing, guiding them toward a more holistic approach to well-being. Through her podcast and retreats, Alex empowers others to take charge of their health, break free from toxic patterns and embrace a life of vitality. She shares many of the alternative and holistic practices that transformed her own life, helping others reconnect with their bodies, minds, and true potential.
Connect with Alex:
Podcast - Cancer Cured Me - Apple or Spotify:
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/cancer-cured-me/id1793127251?i=1000686480119
Web: www.balancedbodyandretreats.com
Insta: @cancercuredme
Sign up for retreat information: info@balancedbodyandretreats.com
@daniellecooperofficial
@toolsfortoughtimes
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