PERSPECTIVES
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PERSPECTIVES *
Welcome to the Perspectives Podcast!
At The Informed Perspective, everything we do comes back to community, connection, and the simple but powerful act of listening. In a world that moves fast and is full of digital noise, it’s easy to miss valuable opportunities to pause, connect, and really hear each other.
That’s where the Perspectives Podcast began. We started out as two friends curious about how we all navigate the digital world, and that curiosity grew into conversations with parents, experts, and people from all walks of life. Our aim? To widen perspectives, spark honest dialogue, and create space for the voices and experiences that need to be heard.
Every episode is a chance to slow down, reflect, and explore the big questions, whether that’s how we parent in today’s world, how we can better support our tweens and teens, or how society can grow more inclusive, empathetic, and connected.
But this isn’t just about us talking. It’s about building a community of voices. If you have a story to share, a perspective to bring, or an experience you think could inspire others, we’d love to hear from you.
So tune in, get curious, and keep informing those perspectives ;-) !! And if you’d like to join us as a guest, or even just start a conversation, please reach out, we’d love to listen.
PERSPECTIVES PODCAST
BODY IMAGE CONTINUED…
Beyond the Mirror – Rethinking Body Image
How do we raise young people to have a healthy relationship with their bodies in a world obsessed with perfection?
In this thought-provoking episode we dive deep into the complex realities of body image, self-worth, and mental health and why these issues matter more than ever.
Joined by two incredible guests body image educator and author Molly Forbes and counsellor, writer, and trainer, Mel Ciavucco. We explore:
Why body diversity should be celebrated from early childhood
How cultural pressures and social media shape our perception of beauty
The growing impact of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic on tweens and teens
The connection between mental wellbeing and body confidence
What schools, families, and media can do to create safer, more inclusive spaces
How to help kids navigate puberty, peer comparison, and unrealistic ideals
This conversation is filled with insights, practical tools, and powerful reminders that health and happiness go far beyond how we look.
Meet the Guests
Molly Forbes @bodyhappyorg
Founder of The Body Happy Organisation, Molly is a leading voice in body image education for children and young people. She’s an award-winning author, speaker and broadcaster, with nearly two decades of experience in media and communications. Her books, Body Happy Kids and Every Body, are essential resources for parents and schools looking to tackle body shame early and promote body acceptance in childhood.
Mel Ciavucco @melciavuccocounselling
Mel is an integrative counsellor, writer, and trainer, specialising in eating disorders, body image, and trauma recovery. She has over a decade of experience in mental health services, including domestic abuse and sexual violence support.
Mel’s work focuses on dismantling harmful cultural beliefs about bodies and food. Her blog and workshops explore the deep links between disordered eating, identity, and societal pressures.
Body image isn’t just about mirrors, it’s about mental health, culture, and what we teach the next generation.
Doctor Advocacy Continued…
Meet The Guests:
Dr. Jonathan Block, FOUNDER OF PIERHEAD LIGHTHOUSE @PIERHEADLIGHTHOUSE.COM (Urologist, USA), who spoke about systemic pressures, training reform, and the growing shortage of specialists.
Kim Downey, PT, FOUNDER OF STAND UP (FOR) DOCTORS! STANDUPFORDOCTORS.ORG (Physiotherapist & Advocate, USA), who shared her personal journey as a cancer survivor and her work addressing burnout, moral injury, and physician well-being.
Dr. Kieran Allen (Psychiatry Registrar, Australia), who opened up about his lived experience with bipolar disorder and the importance of honesty, peer support, and cultural change in medicine.
Dr. Fey Mendes FOUNDER OF @BEYONDTHEBLEEP BEYONDTHEBLEEP.CO.UK (GP, UK), who reflected on burnout, loss, and rediscovering joy inside and outside medicine while building healthier paths for clinicians.
Behind every statistic, policy, or system challenge are real doctors with real stories. In this episode, we sit down with healthcare professionals from around the world to explore what it really means to advocate for doctors, and why their well-being matters for all of us.
Together with our guests we tackled some of the most pressing issues in healthcare today:
Burnout, moral injury, and the silencing of doctors
Mental health in medicine and the importance of peer support
Challenges in medical training, systemic reform, and workforce shortages
The need for work-life balance, better structures, and cultural shifts in healthcare
Honest advice for young people considering a career in medicine
What emerges is a picture of medicine at a crossroads, where doctors are expected to give endlessly, but often without the structures and support they need to thrive. Yet, woven through these stories is also resilience, advocacy, and hope: from new community models and peer networks to creative ways of reimagining healthcare for both patients and clinicians.
This episode is the second part of our Doctor Advocacy series, a space to pause, listen deeply, and reflect on what thriving in healthcare really means.
Burnout. Moral injury. Systemic pressure.
Doctors are speaking up, about the cost of care on their lives, and the urgent need for change.
Education Strategy
Rethinking Education – Collaboration, Technology, and the Future of Learning
Our latest podcast episode brings together a diverse panel of education leaders, all of whom share deep and varied experiences in the field of education.
We dig into some of the biggest challenges facing education right now, like limited access due to poverty and conflict, outdated infrastructure, and the rapidly changing role of technology in the classroom. We talk about why foundational skills like literacy and numeracy still matter, and how the growing mental health crisis among students can’t be ignored. There’s a real need for better support systems for educators and more inclusive, flexible approaches to learning that actually reflect the world students are living in.
We also explore what it means to prepare students for a future shaped by AI and automation. We looked at how over-reliance on digital tools might be holding students back from developing real-world social and emotional skills and why striking the right balance between tech and human connection is so important.
The conversation also covered homeschooling, its benefits, limitations, and the role of community and access. We didn’t shy away from the privilege that can come with it, either.
Some of the key themes we explored:
How socialisation works in both traditional and non-traditional learning environments
The need for teacher training that supports creativity, well-being, and flexibility
The idea of a revised curriculum
Meet the Guests
Anand Krishnaswamy is an award-winning educator, leadership coach, and curriculum innovator with over 20 years of experience across EdTech, pioneering schools, and policy spaces. Now Chief Education Officer at Zista 3E4I, Anand leads large-scale school transformation projects, shaping national conversations on Competency-Based Education, the NEP, and Indian Knowledge Systems.
Phil Hart is Head of School at the British International School of Wrocław and a seasoned international educator. With two decades of experience across six countries and multiple curricula, Phil brings a global perspective to leadership, with a strong focus on student wellbeing, inclusive practices, and preparing learners for a rapidly changing world.
James Clanfield @pillardigitalmarketing_ is a former school leader turned digital strategist and founder of Pillar Digital Marketing. He helps schools and education providers grow through clear messaging, effective digital strategy, and purposeful branding. Alongside his work, James homeschools his five children and supports educators in building meaningful careers beyond the classroom.
Tween Question this episode:
"Why don’t students get a say in what they learn?"
EMPLOYABILITY
How do we prepare young people for work — not just exams?
In this episode of Perspectives, we explore the ever-growing disconnect between formal education and real-world employment. While schools continue to focus on academic achievement and testing, the job market is demanding something very different: creativity, adaptability, resilience, and emotional intelligence.
We brought together a panel of global educators and youth development specialists who are working at the forefront of this challenge.
In this conversation, we unpack:
Why formal education often fails to teach what employers actually need
How we can build critical thinking and resilience, without adding more stress
What inclusion really means in the workplace and the classroom
Why listening to students (and not just teaching them) is a game-changer
How AI, automation, and soft skills are reshaping the future of work
Tween Question:
“How can we learn real-life job skills if we’re still in school and not allowed to work yet?”
A powerful reminder that students are asking the right questions, even when systems aren’t giving the right answers.
Meet Our Guests:
Mel Simmons Founder of Hidden Gem Services– A UK-based education leader working to help young people with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) access inclusive, supportive work environments. Mel shares powerful insights into how employers can change their thinking and how job coaches make a difference.
Donna Kargel Founder of Lotus Coaching– An educator, career coach, and neurodivergent advocate with experience on both sides of the education system. She dives into what makes motivation stick, how feedback shapes learning, and why we need to value real-world competence over conformity.
Aya Barakat Founder of SkillupYOU– Based in the Middle East and working across the GCC, Aya brings a powerful lens on lifelong learning, mindset, and the critical need for adaptability in unstable economies and rapidly changing job markets.
The future of work depends on how we prepare our young people today
Beyond the Curriculum
Must education just be about memorizing facts or acing exams?
Rethinking what education could be.
What if school wasn’t just about passing tests or memorizing facts?
What if education was about helping young people discover who they are, take healthy risks, connect with others, and grow with confidence?
In this episode of The Perspectives Podcast, we step outside the classroom, into the wild, into community, and into the kind of learning that really sticks. From mountain expeditions to mentoring programs, we explore how outdoor education and real-life experiences are reshaping how young people learn, thrive, and find purpose.
Meet The Guests
We’re joined by four powerful voices in alternative and outdoor education who are doing more than talking about change — they’re living it:
Matthew Barnsley – Polaris Outdoor
Explorer and educator bringing students face-to-face with the natural world — from deserts to jungles — helping them grow through challenge and discovery.
Tristian Griffiths – YEMPact
Mentor, coach, and former school leader working to help young people build mental strength, identity, and emotional resilience in and outside the school system.
Claudia Slattery – Outdoor Educator & Academy Founder
Designs transformative outdoor programs that ignite curiosity, grit, and connection through play, sport, and nature.
Saul Simpson – Pines Forest School (Poland)
Founder of a forest school where kids lead their own learning through nature-based, hands-on experiences — no walls, no bells, just real growth.
If school isn’t preparing kids for life — what will?
This conversation looks at what’s missing and what’s possible.
Doctor Advocacy
Are Doctors Being Heard?
In this episode, we wanted to take a closer look at the other side of the advocacy conversation, from the doctors’ perspective.
After our last episode focused on patient voices, it felt only right to ask:
How are doctors coping in today’s system?
Are they still being listened to especially when it comes to shaping healthcare policies or public conversations?
Key Conversation Points:
The changing face of the medical profession, how status, expectations, and working conditions are shifting
The mental and emotional cost of burnout and why it’s often hard for doctors to speak up
The "hero doctor" narrative and how it blurs personal and professional boundaries
The importance of autonomy and purpose and what happens when doctors feel disconnected from both
Why some doctors are choosing alternative models like Direct Primary Care
How AI and innovation might help reduce bureaucracy and restore time for patient care
Why it’s essential to talk openly about mistakes, vulnerability, and self-care
And perhaps most importantly, how to support doctors to reclaim joy, purpose, and balance
This conversation was open, honest, and at times deeply personal. We’re so grateful to our guests for bringing their full selves to the table and we hope it sparks the same level of reflection in you as it did in us.
Meet The Guests
Dr. Jamie Gross medicsincontrol.com
A UK-based anaesthetist and NHS consultant, Jamie is also the founder of Medics in Control. His work focuses on helping doctors regain autonomy and wellbeing in a system that often demands too much. He speaks openly about his experience with burnout and the need for cultural change in medicine—from the inside out.
Dr. Dhaval Desai @doctordesaimd , dhavaldesaimd.com
Based in the US, Dr. Desai is a physician, hospitalist, and author of Burning Out on the Front Lines. He is also a passionate advocate for patient-centred care and physician mental health. With a calm and courageous voice, he speaks about the emotional toll of medicine, the need for vulnerability in leadership, and the real cost of silence.
Doctors aren’t just providers—they’re people. This episode is about listening to them, too.
MOTIVATION
What Drives Us? A Conversation on Motivation
In our latest podcast episode, we dig into the core of what motivates us. We explore how motivation works, how we lose it, and most importantly, how we get it back.
Emily Hatton brings an operations lens, focusing on metrics, accountability, and building supportive business environments. For her, motivation grows from clear goals and strong teamwork.
Sharon Gandy reflects on the importance of physical and mental calm. Her approach to motivation? Simplify your space, catch the small distractions, and build in quiet habits that restore peace.
Marnie Nash challenges societal assumptions about motherhood and identity. She advocates for women, particularly those who are child-free, to feel seen, valued, and motivated to live joyful, full lives.
🌟And in our Tween Talk segment, we ask the powerful question:
“How do you motivate yourself when everything feels hopeless?”
Meet the Guests
Meet Our Guests
Emily Hatton @emilyhatton_businessops
Emily is the founder of Female Founder Space, where she helps women-led businesses build strong operational foundations. She’s passionate about goal-setting, data, and building motivated, resilient teams. In this episode, Emily shares how she stays focused and supports others through clarity and accountability.
Sharon Gandy eleven28home
Sharon is a calm-space creator who empowers people to declutter both their homes and their lives. Her philosophy? Simplify rather than perfect. She shares how calm spaces and daily habits support motivation and mental clarity.
Marnie Nash @marnogram
Marnie is the founder of Otherland Salon, a community for women who don’t have children—by choice or by circumstance. Marnie challenges societal narratives and shares her journey to help others find joy, connection, and a sense of being "picked for the team."
Motivation isn’t just about pushing harder. It’s about tuning into your inner self, creating space, surrounding yourself with motivated people, and paying attention to the passion that drives you, and running with it.
Masculinity
This episode of Perspectives features our very first all-male panel!
We’ve noticed that many of our events and podcasts often feature more women’s voices than men’s, so this episode gave us the chance to hear directly from men about their experiences and perspectives on a subject that affects them the most: masculinity.
Together, we explore:
Barriers to participation: Why men sometimes find it hard to join conversations about feelings, identity, and wellbeing.
Role models and mentorship: How male role models can shape boys’ and young men’s understanding of themselves.
Performative masculinity: The pressure to “always be tough” and the ways this affects mental health and relationships.
Vulnerability and resilience: How men can reframe strength, moving beyond silence and isolation.
Cultural lessons: What The Lord of the Rings can teach us about masculinity.
Parenting and gender stereotypes: How boys and girls are treated differently and what that says about societal expectations.
Sex, porn, and identity: Exploring how exposure to pornography affects young people and the conversations we need to have.
We also look at the wider picture: grassroots communities, both online and offline, are creating safe spaces where men can be honest, connected, and supported. Strength no longer has to mean stoicism; empathy, openness, and care are just as crucial.
This episode is an exploration of how men navigate identity, pressure, and relationships and it challenges us to consider how we can narrow the gender gap and foster greater empathy and understanding for one another.
Meet the Guests
Mike Nicholson – Founder of Progressive Masculinity, Mike creates safe spaces for boys and young men to explore what it means to be a man today. After 18 years as a Secondary English teacher, he now works across Great Britain, advising the government and sharing his work on BBC, ITV, and Channel 4.
progressivemasculinity.co.uk
James Yates – Father, psychotherapist, and martial artist, James explores psychology, story, and myth to understand men’s mental health. His personal journey inspired research into male suicide and support for the Beyond the Mile initiative, combining movement, community, and awareness to honour the 500,000 men lost to suicide each year.
jy-psychotherapy.com
Matt Smith – Co-founder of Smash Life, Matt supports young people and families navigating the care system, drawing on personal experience and over 50 years of combined professional expertise with his brother Andy. He’s also a musician and songwriter with the award-winning Sonic Boom Band, creating original music for Smash Life.
@smashlifeuk, smashlifeuk.com
Through listening, learning, and creating safe spaces, masculinity can be reshaped into something more connected, open, and inclusive.
Inclusivity in Urban Planning: Part 2
Building Inclusive Cities: A Deep Dive into Community, Safety,
and Youth Empowerment
At the heart of every thriving city is a simple truth: everyone deserves to feel safe, welcome, and empowered in their public spaces. Yet, for many young people and marginalized communities, the reality often falls short.
Our latest podcast episode brings together three powerful voices—Carolina Nery, Lesley Mashiri, and Evelina Jaskulska—who shed light on the critical gaps and transformative possibilities in urban design and community planning.
Why Inclusivity Matters in Urban Spaces
Urban spaces are more than concrete and parks—they are the stages where social life unfolds. They shape how we connect, move, and express ourselves. When a city neglects inclusivity, it risks creating environments where some feel invisible, unsafe, or excluded.
What Happens When Spaces Exclude?
Cities are full of life—but not always full of welcome.
Carolina Nery, an architect and placemaker, highlights the disconnect between urban design and teenage life. Young people, especially in lower-income or suburban areas, often have nowhere to go after school. She describes scenes where kids gather in fast-food outlets or hang out in shopping centers where they’re not truly welcome. Her message is clear: if we don’t make space for youth, we risk losing their potential to disengagement or worse.
Lesley Mashiri speaks from his experience in Johannesburg and beyond, asking critical questions about who gets to live close to work, and who feels safe walking their streets. He urges us to look beyond policy and into the lived realities of women, girls, and low-income residents—pointing out that cities must be both functional and human.
Ewelina Jaskulska, a Warsaw-based architect and gender researcher, challenges us to rethink how deeply gender is embedded in public space design. From sports fields that prioritize male-dominated activities to school layouts that reinforce outdated norms, her work shows us how cities often unintentionally exclude.
What makes this conversation powerful isn’t just the critique—it’s the vision for change.
Carolina advocates for community-driven placemaking—spaces co-designed with young people and local residents.
Lesley champions proximity and access, especially when it comes to affordable housing and urban mobility.
Ewelina shares how design can empower rather than divide—giving space to stories, play, and identity.
The episode reminds us that urban transformation doesn’t start with a blueprint—it starts with listening.
Meet the Guests
Ewelina Jaskulska
Architect | Researcher | Co-founder of MOLEKUŁY
Based in Warsaw, Ewelina is reshaping the conversation around gender and public space. As the creator of the Equal Sequence methodology, she examines how urban design reflects and reinforces inequalities. Her work fuses architecture, sociology, and activism—challenging norms like "footballcentrism" and advocating for inclusive, people-first cities. From stadiums to schools, her influence is both visionary and practical.
Carolina Nery
Architect | Urban Planner | Founder of Artecture
Originally from Brazil and now working in New Zealand, Carolina leads Artecture, a placemaking and urban renewal studio rooted in sustainability, local identity, and social connection. Whether activating parks, transforming neglected spaces, or running workshops, she believes design can catalyze real, lasting community change.
artecturestudio.com @artecture.studio
Lesley Mashiri
Urban Strategist | Co-founder of Urban Gurus of the South
Lesley works across African cities to bridge policy and practice—specializing in urban regeneration, affordable housing, and transit-oriented development. With deep expertise in inclusive city-making, he’s particularly focused on co-production models, equitable housing locations, and ensuring women’s needs are embedded into urban design.
urbangurus.co.za @urban_gurus_of_the_south
Let’s co-create cities that don’t just work, but belong to everyone and which nurture community, access and inclusivity.
Body Image
Body Image, Belonging & the Crisis We’re Not Talking Enough About
“These are highly treatable conditions — and yet we’re watching more and more young people die.” – Thomas Midgley
In this raw and deeply moving episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Thomas Midgley and Eating Disorder Therapist Jenny Tomei open up about the realities behind eating disorders, body image, and the silent epidemic impacting our youth.
From the heartbreaking gaps in our healthcare system to the cultural obsession with appearance and achievement, this conversation doesn’t hold back. It’s about more than food or weight — it’s about belonging, connection, trauma, and the urgent need for change.
🔍 We cover:
Why early intervention in eating disorders matters — and why it’s not happening
How social media and perfectionism are driving young people into crisis
The cultural shift from connection to comparison — and how it’s hurting our children
What parents and peers can actually do to help
Real-life experiences of recovery, resilience, and redefining self-worth
“So unfortunately, anorexia, you know, I was like a dragon. I just I was lashing out to family. And I didn't believe I had a problem. And you know, my mum and dad, they're amazing. But they just didn't know how to deal with it.” Jenny
This is a conversation for parents. For educators. For mental health professionals. For young people navigating identity and self-worth in a world that constantly tells them they're not enough.
Whether you're struggling, supporting someone who is, or trying to understand more about this issue it’s worth a listen.
The conversation around body image is so much deeper than what it first appears. It’s about society as a whole. And it’s time we talked about it.
Meet the Guests
Thomas Midgley
Thomas is the founding director of the Body Image Treatment Clinic on Harley Street, London. A registered Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with the BABCP and a Highly Specialised Eating Disorders Dietitian, Thomas brings over 20 years of experience from both the NHS and private sector. He’s worked extensively with adolescents and adults dealing with eating disorders, personality disorders, and complex trauma — always with body image at the heart of the work. Trained in CBT-E, MANTRA, DBT, Schema Therapy, and Compassion-Focused Therapy, Thomas is known for his compassionate, evidence-based approach.
@thebodyimagetreatmentclinic | thebodyimagetreatmentclinic.co.uk
Jenny Tomei
Jenny is a qualified Eating Disorder Therapist, Nutritional Therapist, and Personal Trainer. Having recovered from anorexia herself, she now uses her lived experience to help others find healing through her private practice and her non-profit, JenUp, which offers early intervention workshops in schools and communities. Jenny’s work bridges therapy, nutrition, and fitness — all rooted in empathy, education, and empowerment.
@askjenup | jenup.co.uk
Whether you're navigating illness, supporting a loved one, or working in healthcare, this episode will leave you informed, empowered, and inspired to speak up and support others in doing the same.
Patient Advocacy
On Advocacy & Being Seen
In this episode of The Informed Perspective, we dive into a powerful, personal, and deeply urgent conversation about patient advocacy — what it means, why it matters, and how it can truly be the difference between being dismissed and being heard.
We were joined by two extraordinary guests:
Christine Von Raesfeld
A citizen scientist and lived experience expert, Christine is a global voice for ethical patient data use, pharmacogenomics, and rare disease advocacy. With a career rooted in research equity and AI ethics, Christine shares how growing up with a rare blood disorder and enduring multiple misdiagnoses led her to advocate for personalized, patient-centered care.
Shona Dors
A communications director and breast cancer survivor, Shona speaks candidly about what happens when trust in the healthcare system breaks down. After experiencing 13 surgeries, sepsis, and serious surgical complications during COVID, she became a fierce advocate for transparency, informed consent, and medical accountability.
Together, we explore:
The emotional toll of misdiagnosis and medical gaslighting
Why genetic testing and personalized medicine are lifesaving, not luxury
The role of patient data, and why consent and equity are critical
The trauma of not being believed — and how advocacy rebuilds dignity
How to prepare for appointments, track care, and know your rights
What real informed consent and patient-centered care should look like
We also discuss how patients, caregivers, and even young people can support one another — and what needs to change in our healthcare systems to make care more human, inclusive, and just.
Inclusivity
Embracing Inclusivity Through Storytelling and Allyship
In this compelling conversation, our panel dives deep into the complexities of inclusion, masculinity, disability, and allyship — unpacking the personal, social, and cultural layers that shape our experiences and identities.
We hear from three inspiring guests, each bringing a unique perspective and lived experience:
Kosta Michalopoulos — A men’s coach, registered nurse, and founder of The Men Spirit, Kosta challenges traditional ideas of masculinity. He explores how emotional suppression affects men’s mental health and the urgent need for safe spaces where men can express vulnerability without stigma. His work is centered on empowering men to redefine strength through emotional honesty and positive role modeling.
Nicole Bonnah — Journalist, filmmaker, and founder of Tap In Think Tank, Nicole shares her insights on quiet allyship — the powerful, often unseen actions that create lasting change. She encourages stepping into discomfort to confront bias and advocates for storytelling as a tool to foster cross-cultural understanding and radical inclusivity.
Jerry Okiki — A disability rights advocate and storyteller living with a stammer, Jerry powerfully illustrates the role of personal narratives in breaking down stigma. His story reveals the courage it takes to embrace difference and use one’s voice to inspire others facing similar challenges.
Key Themes Explored
Redefining Masculinity
Kosta discusses how society’s expectations often silence men’s emotions, contributing to mental health struggles and isolation. He offers practical ideas for encouraging boys and men to engage openly in conversations about feelings and identity.The Power of Quiet Allyship
Nicole explains how allyship isn’t just loud gestures but the consistent, humble work behind the scenes—correcting bias privately, listening deeply, and making space for marginalized voices.Storytelling as Connection
Jerry’s experiences highlight how sharing personal stories creates psychological safety and builds bridges across difference, helping communities become truly inclusive.Overcoming Fear and Embracing Difference
We discuss how fear often fuels division and exclusion, and how small acts of kindness and courage can shift the narrative toward acceptance and celebration of diversity.
This discussion is an invitation to reflect on our own biases, to listen to stories different from our own, and to act with kindness and courage in building inclusive communities. Whether you’re a parent, educator, ally, or simply curious, you’ll find meaningful takeaways to inspire your journey.
Memorable Mentions
“I never had anyone to look up to… so I became the voice I needed.”
— Jerry Okiki
“It starts with you—the quiet actions, the courageous conversations.” — Nicole Bonnah
“We need to change the story of what it means to be a man.”
— Kosta Michalopoulos
In one of our most heartfelt episodes yet, we explore what it truly means to overcome adversity—and why connection, understanding, and hope are essential for us all.
Greg shares his journey through childhood bullying, dyslexia, and not one but two open-heart surgeries, enduring over 200 days in hospital. His resilience and his work with the Little Optimist Trust’s sailing therapy academy for underprivileged youth is nothing short of inspiring.
Larissa opens up about surviving rape and substance abuse with courage, clarity, and a determination to break stigma and reclaim her narrative.
Kerri speaks candidly about her years of living rough—offering a powerful reminder of the invisibility many face and the importance of being truly seen.
Together, we discuss:
The weight of shame and societal expectations
The stigma that keeps people silent
The power of community and human connection
Why adversity knows no social boundaries
A key takeaway for the next generation? Let’s build third spaces for our tweens—spaces where they’re not judged, where mentoring, belonging, and creativity thrive. Because isolation makes adversity harder. And together, we are stronger.
Overcoming Adversity
Month of Inclusivity
As Greg beautifully puts it:
"Your life changes, you have more chapters to write."
Our guests:
Greg Bertish
Founder of the Sharkspotter Program & the Little Optimist Trust
Website: THELITTLEOPTIMISTTRUST.ORG
Instagram: @LITTLEOPTIMISTLarissa Astara Grey
Positive Sexual Education Advocate & Speaker
Website: LARISSAASTARAGRAY.CO.UK
Instagram: @LARISSA_ASTARA_GRAYKerri Douglas
Homeless Lived Experience Consultant, Keynote Speaker, Author
Website: HOMELESSNESSINSIDEOUT.CO.UK
Instagram: @KERRI_D_2.0
Exploring Self-Discovery
In this thoughtful and energizing episode, we delve into the topic of self-discovery—asking whether it's a luxury or an essential ingredient for a fulfilling life. Through candid and personal reflections, our guests explore identity, resilience, and authenticity, sharing wisdom that resonates across ages and life stages.
We Discuss:
Overcoming Limiting Beliefs
Our guests reflect on how past traumas and ingrained stories can hold us back from truly knowing ourselves. They share how practices like journaling, meditation, breathwork, and cold exposure can support personal healing and mindset shifts.
Embodiment & the Mind-Body Connection
Self-discovery isn't just about thinking—it’s about feeling. This episode highlights how reconnecting with the body is a powerful, often overlooked, part of personal growth.
The Power of Community
You're not meant to do this alone. We explore how community helps anchor identity and offers a safe space to evolve. Real transformation often happens in connection with others.
Practical Tools for Growth
From cold exposure and breath work to journaling and mindful self-talk, this episode offers actionable techniques to help listeners navigate their inner landscape.
Redefining Identity
Chantelle introduces the idea of discovering your (se)“X factor”—your unique essence—and architecting your life from a place of authenticity and purpose.
Whether you're just starting to ask big questions or deep into your journey, this conversation invites you to embrace who you truly are—with curiosity, courage, and compassion.
Our guests:
Priya Nair
Certified Life and Brain Coach
Instagram: @withpriyanair
Website: liveinmindfulness.com
Chantelle Botha
Global Speaker, Author, Identity Architect, Founder of Dragonfly
Website: dragonflyccc.com
Darren Timms
Therapist, Mentor, Transformation Coach, Best-selling Author of The Journey Back to Self Website: darrenjontimms.com
Macaulay Sutton
Founder of Arctic Alchemy, Certified Wim Hof Instructor & Breathwork Facilitator
Instagram: arctic.alchemy
Website: arcticalchemy.co.uk
Quotes That Moved Us
Priya Nair
“I felt uneasy when everything outside seemed perfect, but inside felt off.”
“People can only be how they are... but I have control over how I would like to respond.”
“I don’t know what I don’t know.”
Chantelle Botha
“Our X factor is the thing that makes us stand out from the sea of sameness.”
“Unless we embody our truth, we’re not going to find that X factor.”
“Follow the joy.”
Darren Timms
“You are totally 100% responsible for everything that shows up in your world.”
“Follow your purpose. Follow your passion, whatever that may be for you.”
“Life’s gonna happen whether I like it or not, so grow and evolve through these experiences.”
Macaulay Sutton
“The biggest act of self-love is discipline.” “Dare to be different. Dare to go against everything which has been wrote because we define our own journey.”
Building Stronger Communities
Through Inclusive Urban Planning
Designing Communities That Truly Connect
What makes a neighbourhood feel like home?
In this episode, we speak with Seth Kaplan (author and expert on fragile communities) and Eric Sandelands (community-focused urban planner) to explore how thoughtful design can create places where people feel connected, supported, and included.
“A fragile community is where everyone is on their own, and nobody cares for each other or the place.” – Seth Kaplan
From local schools to walkable streets, we discuss how urban planning shapes our everyday lives—and how small changes can make a big difference.
We discuss:
Why local schools help build independence and trust
How walkability, nature, and shared spaces encourage connection
The difference between social poverty and economic poverty
How to make community voices central in planning decisions
Where technology fits in—if it’s designed for connection
This episode digs deep into the challenges of modern urban planning, the importance of listening to community voices, and how connection—not just construction—is the foundation of resilient neighborhoods.
Exploring AI
Exploring AI: Ethics, Inclusion & the Future
In this episode of The Informed Perspective, we dive into the world of Artificial Intelligence—what it means for our workplaces, schools, homes, and futures.
AI is reshaping how we live, learn, and work—but are we ready for the pace of change? Our panel explores the promise and the pitfalls, from workplace wellbeing and education to activism and safeguarding.
Featuring:
Dr. Stephanie Fitzgerald – Clinical Psychologist & Workplace Wellbeing Expert @workplace_wellbeing
Hammed Kayode Alabi – Founder of Skill2Rural.Org and Rafiki AI, bringing career advice to underserved youth
@iamkayfactor
Patsy Stevenson – Women’s rights activist tackling gender bias in tech
Nicki Watts – Neurodiverse facilitator & experienced Youth Practitioner focused on AI safety, inclusion & neurodiversity
Plus: They answer a question posed by one of our tweens!
Themes covered:
Ethical AI in workplaces
AI for education & underserved communities
Bias, fairness, and inclusion
Parental guidance and youth empowerment
What kind of future we want to build with AI
We're not just talking about technology—we're talking about the kind of future we want to create. Because AI is really a conversation about people, not just programs.
Loss & Transition
We all experience change. We all encounter loss. Yet somehow, when these moments arrive, they often feel isolating—like no one else could possibly understand the depth of what we're going through.
That’s why we created this episode.
In our latest podcast, we dive deep into the universal experiences of loss and transition, exploring how they shape us, unravel us, and—eventually—help rebuild us. Through the deeply personal stories of four incredible guests, this conversation is for anyone who has faced uncertainty, grief, identity shifts, or simply paused to ask, What really matters in the end?
🌿 Our Guests:
Dawn Ford – Loss & Wellbeing Specialist
On grief as emotional weight, the body-mind connection, and emotional honesty as a foundation for resilience.
@dawnford_lossandwellbeingEmily McGregor – Writer & Music Historian
On losing a parent, reclaiming meaning through music, and the unexpected liberation that grief can bring.
@emjmacgregor
Christen Williams – BRCA Charity Founder
On generational loss, navigating preventative health choices, and building community through shared experience.
@brcachatterBethany Smith – Midwife, Mother, and Cancer Warrior
On living with incurable cancer, holding hope through humour, and prioritising what truly matters in life.
YouTube Channel
@Allloveislight
Together, we explore:
What it means to carry grief, not “get over” it
How trauma and loss shift our identity
The surprising gifts that can emerge from pain
And the power of human connection, humour, and purpose in the face of uncertainty
This isn’t just an episode for people currently experiencing grief,
it’s a reflection on mortality, meaning, and the things that last.
Discussion: Exploring Sleep
How to Sleep Smarter at Every Age
In this episode, we shine a light on one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, tools for health and wellbeing: sleep. From newborn routines to adult insomnia and chronic health challenges, we explore how sleep shapes every stage of life — and what we can do to improve it.
We're joined by three brilliant guests, each bringing a unique lens to the conversation:
Sinead Davin – Newborn Care Specialist & Parental Support Coach
Sinead works closely with new parents, offering gentle, responsive strategies for infant sleep without rigid routines. In this episode, she shares the real struggles new mums and dads face — from exhaustion to anxiety — and how understanding a baby's cues and rhythms can make all the difference.
Key Insight: New parents need support, not pressure — and feeding well during the day can support better sleep at night.
Tracy Hannigan – Sleep Therapist Specializing in Insomnia
Tracy brings a wealth of experience in helping adults navigate insomnia, especially when it’s fueled by stress and anxiety. She explains the concept of hyperarousal — being “tired but wired” — and how changing our mindset around sleeplessness can break the cycle.
Key Insight: Fear of not sleeping can keep us awake — don’t check the clock at 3 a.m.!
Janie Perry – Naturopath, Nutritional Therapist & Wellbeing Coach
Janie explores how nutrition and lifestyle affect sleep, especially for those dealing with long-term health conditions. She offers practical, food-based advice to balance blood sugar, support melatonin production, and reduce evening overstimulation.
Key Insight: Good sleep starts in the kitchen — balance blood sugar, avoid stimulants, and support your body naturally.
What You’ll Learn:
How sleep deprivation affects brain health, memory, and even Alzheimer’s risk
Practical tips for every age and stage, from white noise to Yoga Nidra
Tools like breathwork, bedtime rituals, and magnesium (used wisely)
Why there’s no one-size-fits-all solution — and that’s okay
Whether you're navigating night feeds, battling insomnia, or just want to feel more rested — this episode is full of expert advice.
Discussion: Discovery & Exploration!
Featuring Dr. Megan Christian FRAeS is a member of the 2022 European Space Agency Group and Reserve Astronaut and Exploration Commercialisation Lead at the UK Space Agency and Sue Stockdale, Inspirational Speaker, Trailblazing Explorer & Author, Executive Coach & Creator of Award-Winning Podcasts.
In this episode, we sat down with two extraordinary women who’ve pushed the limits of what’s possible—Dr. Megan Christian, astronaut reserve member with the European Space Agency, and Sue Stockdale, the UK’s first woman to ski to the magnetic North Pole.
Together, they talk about exploration in every sense of the word—from venturing into extreme environments to navigating personal challenges and inner doubts.
What you can expect:
Amazing real-life stories – From polar expeditions to astronaut training, both Megan and Sue share their powerful journeys, reminding us that courage often starts with a single step outside your comfort zone.
Down-to-earth advice – Tips on how to stay curious, push past fear, and build confidence—even when things get uncomfortable.
Big ideas, grounded in experience – We explore the human drive to discover, the impact of our beliefs, and the strength found in community and connection.
Real talk – They open up about everyday challenges like boredom, self-doubt, and the pressure to “have it all figured out”—offering thoughtful, relatable insights along the way.
This conversation is part adventure, part reflection—and all heart. Whether you're dreaming big, facing a crossroads, or just looking for a little motivation, this episode will leave you inspired to keep moving forward.
Discussion: Online Community
Featuring Jacky Power & Navine Eldesouki
In this podcast we dive into the evolving role of community in our lives—both online and in-person.
We were joined by two inspiring voices:
✨ Jacky Power, @the_therapeutic_poet,– Therapist, performance poet, and founder of Feeling Freedom, Jackie shares her personal journey of navigating the stigma of loving someone with addiction. She offers a powerful look at how creative expression and community can support healing and connection.
✨ Navine Eldesouki, @coffeewithanexpat,– Founder of Coffee With An Expat, a global network supporting expat women. Navine opens up about the unseen loneliness of expat life and how she built a purpose-led community that empowers women through both online and in-person meetups.
💬 In this episode, we explored:
The role of digital spaces in supporting isolated or niche groups
Why in-person connection still matters
The challenges of group dynamics, social media, and self-promotion
The balance between consistency and change in growing community
The importance of normalizing discomfort and making space for curiosity
How local actions can lead to real impact
With reflections inspired by voices like Sherry Turkle, Charles Leadbeater, and Darren Rose, this episode is a reminder that communities—big or small—start with people who care.
“Be the community you want to have.” – Darren Rose
“The most powerful words can be: ‘I don’t know.’” – Jackie Power
“Each community serves a different purpose.” – Navine Eldesouki
Whether you're creating a space, seeking one, or learning how to belong, this conversation is for you.
Discussion: On Shyness
In this podcast we dive into the topic of Shyness.
We were joined by Nadia Finer, (www.shyandmighty.com) the UK’s leading Shyness Coach, host of the Shy and Mighty podcast, and author of two books on shyness, along with Laura Horton,(@lynn_faces) a multi-award-winning writer and Plymouth’s first playwright Laureate (2020-23).
Together, we explored the often overlooked subject of shyness, emphasizing the importance of listening more attentively and being observant of others' needs.
Listen to or watch the recording below to gain insights into what it means to be shy and learn how we can help shy individuals thrive!
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is the UK’s leading shyness expert and coach, host of the Shy and Mighty podcast
and the author of two books about shyness. She is a regular speaker in schools around the country
and also runs a school-based program to help shy kids feel more comfortable to be themselves.
She has appeared on Radio 4, Saturday Live, Woman’s Hour and the ITV News. She has been in
The Times, Guardian,the Telegraph, The Independent and Good Housekeeping.
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is a multi-award-winning writer and Plymouth's first playwright Laureate (2020-23). Her debut play Labyrinth Diet won the OFFCOMM Award in 2021, and her follow-up Breathless won a Fringe First, was a Popcorn Award finalist, and earned a New York Times critic’s pick after runs at Soho Theatre and 59e59 Off-Broadway. She also wrote the short film A Summer of Birds, which won the Toast of the Fringe in 2021.
In 2024, Laura was an Artistic Associate at the Barbican Theatre Plymouth, where she co-wrote and directed Ciderella. Her play Lynn Faces won the Birds Of Paradise Exceptional Theatre Award at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe and will tour in early 2025. An associate of The Space, Laura launched Hidden by Things and Theatre Stories, earning her a spot in The Stage100. She was also featured on BBC Voices South in 2023 and runs Bad Sex Writing workshops. Laura is represented by United Agents.
Discussion: On the Importance of Community
In the episode we consider the subject of Community.
Joining us were Faye, a Health and Wellbeing Coach (movemindset.com), Melissa, a psychologist specialising in adults and multicultural couples (mhernandez-jaczewska.com) and Loraine, a life and work-place coach with an Advanced Diploma in Counselling and Psychology.
In this episode we share an insightful discussion on Love in a Digital World.
Joining us were Jayc Ryder @jaycryder, a Transformational Change Coach with an impressive background, Meesha Dooley @phoenixcoaching111, a Motivational Speaker, Coach, and Personal Trainer, and Janie Waring @janiewaring, a Mentor & Coach in Human Needs Psychology.
Hit Play to hear their perspectives on navigating relationships and love in today's digital age!
DISCUSSION: Looking for Love in a Digital World
Webinar Discussion: The Role of the Doula in the Community
On January 23rd, we hosted a webinar on the Role of the Doula in the Community. The discussion explored not only the work that doulas do, but also the changes they've observed in family dynamics and community connections. Our guest speakers included two doulas, Debbie and Spela, as well as a maternal mental health coach, Nikki.