Figuring It Out

Why can't I stop thinking about my ex? Dr Alex George and research scientist Dr Kathryn Bates answer a listener's dilemma about still thinking about an ex more than a year after a breakup. They explore why our brains struggle to let go, whether it's normal to still miss someone, and what can actually help you move forward.We're not here to give medical advice, we’re just two friends exploring the science and figuring out life together. If you have any concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.New episodes arrive every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Monday tackles the Big Question, Tuesday answers a real listener dilemma, and Wednesday separates Myth, Fact and It's Complicated on the most common claims surrounding the week's topic.Have a question or dilemma you'd like us to tackle in a future episode? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at hello@figuringitoutpod.com.

Can heartbreak actually break your heart? Dr Alex George and research scientist Dr Kathryn Bates explore the science of heartbreak, rejection and emotional pain. They explain why the brain processes heartbreak in similar ways to physical pain, what heartbreak does to your body, and what research says about recovering after a breakup.We're not here to give medical advice, we’re just two friends exploring the science and figuring out life together. If you have any concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.No lectures. No easy answers. Just two people trying their best to figure it out.New episodes arrive every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Monday tackles the Big Question, Tuesday answers a real listener dilemma, and Wednesday separates Myth, Fact and It's Complicated on the most common claims surrounding the week's topic.Have a question or dilemma you'd like us to tackle in a future episode? We'd love to hear from you. Email us at hello@figuringitoutpod.com.

In the final part of Toddla's stomp with Alex, they discuss the habits, routines and mindset shifts that have helped Toddla build a healthier, happier life.He reflects on what changed after his ADHD diagnosis, his relationship with his wife Annie MacManus and their two children, and what true contentment looks like today.Order Alex’s latest book Am I Normal? - out now!Order Happy Habits - out now! Follow the podcast on Instagram @thestompcastDownload Mettle: the mental fitness app for men

In part 2, Toddla T opens up to Dr Alex about how ADHD is his superpower and how during one of the most successful parts of his career, he was going through the darkest part of his life.After a lifetime of not understanding where his lack of focus was coming from, Toddla was diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood.You’ll hear T speak about his general anxiety disorder, known as GAD, the ADHD symptoms he’s experienced throughout his life, as well as his diagnosis experience and his journey in finding the right medication balance for him.Toddla also shares how his self-soothing with alcohol was in fact the depths of addiction and how he subsequently became sober in order to improve both his health and lifestyle, especially as a father.Order Alex’s latest book Am I Normal? - out now!Order Happy Habits - out now! Follow the podcast on Instagram @thestompcastDownload Mettle: the mental fitness app for men

Last week we shared the final ever episode of The Stompcast. Before we introduce what's coming next, we're revisiting one of the most important conversations Dr Alex has ever had.Looking back, this episode with Toddla T became a genuine turning point. It inspired Alex to seek an ADHD assessment, stop drinking alcohol, and ultimately changed the direction of his life.In part one, Toddla reflects on balancing work, family and the pressures of success, while sharing how his priorities have shifted over the years.Order Alex’s latest book Am I Normal? - out now!Order Happy Habits - out now! Follow the podcast on Instagram @thestompcastDownload Mettle: the mental fitness app for men

TW: This episode contains reference to suicide and mental illness.In part three, Dr Alex George and his mother Jane explore how their family has learned to have open and honest conversations about mental health. They discuss the pressures of perfectionism, the importance of being vulnerable, and how to recognise the signs that someone may be struggling.Plus, Jane shares why learning to fail well is one of life’s most valuable lessons, and reflects on what she’s most grateful for in her life.The resource Jane mentions in this part is jaaq.appFollow @knitformentalhealth and support Jane’s work here.Resources:SamaritansShoutCALMPapyrusOrder Alex’s latest book Am I Normal? - out now!Order Happy Habits - out now! Follow the podcast on Instagram @thestompcastGet the new, pocket guide version of The Mind Manual nowDownload Mettle: the mental fitness app for men

TW: This episode contains reference to suicide and mental illness.In part two, Dr Alex George and his mother Jane open up about the devastating loss of their brother and son, Llŷr,  who died by suicide in 2020. They reflect on the reality of navigating grief after suicide, the impact it has had on their family, and how they have each found ways to move forward whilst keeping Llŷr’s memory at the heart of everything they do.Plus, Jane shares the story behind Knit for Mental Health, the incredible initiative she launched with her husband Anthony, and reveals how the project has gone on to raise an incredible £100,000 for charity!Follow @knitformentalhealth and support Jane’s work here.Resources:SamaritansShoutCALMPapyrusOrder Alex’s latest book Am I Normal? - out now!Order Happy Habits - out now! Follow the podcast on Instagram @thestompcastGet the new, pocket guide version of The Mind Manual nowDownload Mettle: the mental fitness app for men

TW: This episode contains reference to suicide and mental illness.To mark the final episode of the Stompcast, Dr Alex George is joined by a very special guest: his mother, Jane George.In part one, Jane reflects on Alex’s childhood, shares what it was like watching her son appear on Love Island, and reveals her reaction when Alex first told her about his ADHD diagnosis…Plus, Jane and Alex revisit some of their favourite family memories, explore the role nature has played throughout their lives and discuss why spending time outdoors remains so important to them.Follow @knitformentalhealth and support Jane’s work here.Resources:SamaritansShoutCALMPapyrusOrder Alex’s latest book Am I Normal? - out now!Order Happy Habits - out now! Follow the podcast on Instagram @thestompcastGet the new, pocket guide version of The Mind Manual nowDownload Mettle: the mental fitness app for men