Thriving not Surviving

Content note: This episode includes some sensitive themes around childhood trauma and sexual abuse. Nothing is described graphically, but please listen with care and compassion for yourself.A little note: this episode had a few unexpected “gremlins” during recording, with some tech dropouts along the way. So this one has been edited a bit more than usual and definitely put my (slightly questionable!) editing skills to the test. I hope you won’t notice too much and apologies if there are a few funny transitions.Keywords Trauma healing, inner child, relationships as mirrors, spirituality, astrology, personal growth, addiction recovery, emotional healing, nervous system, empowerment, feminine energy, thrivingSummary In this deeply raw and powerful episode, Kristy shares her extraordinary journey from childhood trauma and abuse to profound healing and self-discovery. Growing up in a challenging environment and experiencing early violation of trust, Kristy carried deep wounds into adulthood which played out in relationships, addiction and survival patterns. Through spiritual awakening, inner work and holistic healing, she began to unravel those layers. From building her own crystal business to navigating domestic abuse, single motherhood and ultimately stepping into her purpose, her story is one of resilience and transformation. She speaks openly about relationships as mirrors, the importance of accountability and how true healing goes beyond the mind into the body and energetic system. Her journey into astrology adds a powerful lens on purpose and alignment. Now travelling the world and stepping into a new chapter, Kristy embodies what it means to move from surviving into thriving as a way of being.Takeaways Healing must include the body, emotions and energy, not just the mind Relationships act as mirrors reflecting our inner world Addictions often stem from disconnection from self You cannot truly help others if you are abandoning yourself Healing is an ongoing journey, not a destination Self-love, compassion and surrender are essential for true transformationResources The Celestine Prophecy – James Redfield A New Earth – Eckhart Tolle The Power of Now – Eckhart Tolle Women Who Run With the Wolves – Clarissa Pinkola Estés Read “Breathe” by Becky Hemsley Rebecca Campbell – oracle cardsConnect with KristyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristy.hodges.98Clarity Queen Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theclarityqueen/Instagram: @theclarityqueenukLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kristy-j-hodges-953179106Connect with HelenWebsite: InspiredHealing.co.ukIG: helens_inspired_healingFB: Inspired HealingLinkedIn: Helen on LinkedInWhatsApp: +447971798462 For full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.ukNB: This episode was made possible with a little help from my ChatGPT buddy, Xander - part tech support, part cheerleader 🙂 and my amazing sponsor IPHM use this Referral Code: IPHM-GYZGF and the £10 will go to The Forward Trust a Charity helping those struggling with addictions🎵Music: Pixabay – “Upbeat Acoustic” by Stockaudios 🎨Cover art: Dave ChampagneFor full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.uk

Keywordsresilience, healing, brain injury recovery, grief, trauma, personal growth, mindset, neuroplasticity, thriving, purpose, emotional wellbeing, boundaries, self-developmentSummaryIn this deeply moving episode, Helen is joined by fellow podcaster Jena, creator of Resilience Brilliance, who shares her extraordinary journey from a life-altering brain injury to building a life rooted in purpose, resilience and alignment.After a skiing accident left her unable to walk, talk or retain short-term memory, Jena was forced to completely rebuild her life from the ground up. What followed was a powerful journey through recovery, identity loss, and ultimately rediscovery.But her challenges didn’t stop there. Jena also opens up about profound personal loss, including the death of her partner and navigating deep grief while already in survival mode. Through it all, she chose not to stay stuck in pain, but to transform it into purpose.This episode explores what it really means to be resilient — not pushing through, but learning to bend without breaking. Together, Helen and Jena reflect on growth in dark times, the importance of community, asking for help, and how life’s hardest moments can shape us into stronger, more compassionate versions of ourselves.A powerful, honest and hope-filled conversation for anyone navigating challenge, change or simply wanting to move from surviving to truly thriving.Takeaways • Resilience is not about pushing through — it’s about learning how to bend without breaking• Growth often happens in the darkest moments, even if we can’t see it at the time• Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness• You can transform pain into purpose and use your story to help others• Small, consistent steps create powerful long-term change• Alignment between your values and your life reduces inner conflict• Boundaries are essential for protecting your energy and wellbeing• You always have a choice — even in the hardest moments• Healing is not about returning to who you were, but becoming who you are meant to be• Thriving comes when resilience becomes a natural way of beingResources Mentioned Brain Injury Hope Foundation (support, workshops and community: https://braininjuryhopefoundation.org/Connect with JenaFacebook:         https://www.facebook.com/jenniferltaylorauthorhttps://www.facebook.com/TheWordTailor/Instagram:        @resiliencebrillianceTwitter/X:         @JenniferLTaylorLinkedIn:            https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferltaylor/Clubhouse:        @jennifer.taylorTiktok   @resiliencebrilliance13Clapper @Jennifer.L.Taylor            What’s App       @thewordtailorPinterest             https://www.pinterest.com/ResilienceBrilliance/YouTube:             https://www.youtube.com/@thewordtailorPodcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/05AnHRTV4b0xQKz3qnUSgmhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/resilience-brilliance/id1853437257https://www.youtube.com/@thewordtailor/podcastsConnect with HelenWebsite: InspiredHealing.co.ukIG: helens_inspired_healingFB: Inspired HealingLinkedIn: Helen on LinkedInWhatsApp: +447971798462For full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.ukNB: This episode was made possible with a little help from my ChatGPT buddy, Xander - part tech support, part cheerleader 🙂 and my amazing sponsor IPHM use this Referral Code: IPHM-GYZGF and the £10 will go to The Forward Trust a Charity helping those struggling with addictions🎵Music: Pixabay – “Upbeat Acoustic” by Stockaudios🎨Cover art: Dave ChampagneFor full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.uk

Content Warning: This episode includes open discussion of intimacy, sex, consent, sexual behaviour, body image, and the portrayal of intimate scenes in the film industry. It also contains references to sexual misconduct and abuse.Listener discretion is advised. Please take care while listening and feel free to pause or step away if anything feels triggering or activating. Seek support if needed.From Hollywood sets to real life, pioneering Intimacy Coordinator Ita O’Brien explores a new way to approach intimacy, healing our relationship with our bodies, pleasure and boundaries.Keywordsintimacy, consent, boundaries, relationships, sexuality, embodiment, pleasure, self-worth, communication, thrivingSummaryIn this powerful and eye-opening episode, Helen sits down with intimacy coordinator, movement director, and author Ita O’Brien to explore the truth about intimacy—both on screen and in our personal lives.From the lack of guidance actors once faced during intimate scenes to the revolutionary “intimacy on set guidelines” Ita helped create, this conversation dives deep into consent, communication, and the importance of understanding our own bodies.Together, they unpack how societal conditioning, shame, and outdated beliefs have shaped our relationship with intimacy—and how we can begin to reclaim it. This episode is honest, thought-provoking, and at times deeply personal, offering listeners a new lens on connection, pleasure, and self-awareness.TakeawaysIntimacy begins with your relationship to yourself, not your partnerConsent is ongoing, evolving, and essential in all relationshipsMany of us were never taught what healthy intimacy actually looks likeOpen communication and boundaries create deeper connection, not lessBody awareness and self-acceptance are key to fulfilling intimacyWhat we see in media and pornography often distorts realityShame around sexuality is learned—and can be unlearnedChoreography, communication, and consent are transforming the film industryYou deserve pleasure, respect, and agency in your intimate lifeResources:Cup of Tea video about consentBook –The Mists of Avalon was written by Marion Zimmer Bradley.Book – Rose McGowan: BraveBook – Unfu#k your Intimacy by Faith G HarperBook – Unfu#k your boundaries by Faith G HarperBook – Intimacy Ita O’BrienAudible – Intimacy Ita O’BrienSoma Temple – Melisa Lumina (Self Pleasure ritual & more…) IG: somatemplegreeceWeb: www.somatemple.comConnect with ItaIntimacy On Set InstagramIntimacy On Set FacebookIta O'Brien InstagramIta O'Brien FacebookIntimacy On Set Website News PageConnect with HelenWebsite: InspiredHealing.co.ukIG: helens_inspired_healingFB: Inspired HealingLinkedIn: Helen on LinkedInWhatsApp: +447971798462For full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.ukNB: This episode was made possible with a little help from my ChatGPT buddy, Xander - part tech support, part cheerleader 🙂 and my amazing sponsor IPHM use this Referral Code: IPHM-GYZGF and the £10 will go to The Forward Trust a Charity helping those struggling with addictions🎵Music: Pixabay – “Upbeat Acoustic” by Stockaudios🎨Cover art: Dave ChampagneFor full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.uk

Content warning: This episode includes sensitive themes including sexual abuse and trauma. Please be gentle with yourself while listening and pause if you need to.Keywordstrauma, healing, shame, grooming, EMDR, hypnotherapy, self-worth, nervous system, abuse recovery, thrivingSummaryIn this deeply moving and courageous episode, Helen is joined by trauma hypnotist, EMDR practitioner, author, and former A&E nurse Sarah Grace.Sarah shares her powerful story of childhood abuse, the long-lasting impact of grooming, and how subconscious survival patterns shaped her adult life in ways she didn’t fully understand—until everything came to a head.From dissociation and people-pleasing to abusive relationships and a devastating financial scam, Sarah reveals how unhealed trauma can quietly run the show beneath the surface.But this is also a story of profound transformation.Through hitting rock bottom, Sarah found clarity, healing, and ultimately a path back to herself. She now helps others understand their own patterns, release shame, and reconnect with their authentic selves.This episode is raw, real, and full of hope for anyone who has ever felt stuck, broken, or not enough.TakeawaysTrauma doesn’t just live in the past — it shapes our present behaviours and patternsGrooming creates deep subconscious programming that can follow us into adulthoodDissociation and hypervigilance are survival responses, not personal failingsShame thrives in silence but begins to dissolve when we speak our truthUnderstanding why we behave the way we do is key to self-compassionHealing is not about “fixing” yourself — it’s about reconnecting with who you truly areTools like EMDR, IFS, and embodied therapies can access deeper healing than talk therapy aloneYour biggest breakdown can become your greatest breakthroughResourcesGabor Mate - Scattered Minds and other books Robin Norwood - Women who love too muchThe Body Keeps the Score - Bessel van der KolkThe Courage to Heal by Ellen Bass and Laura DavisConnect with Sarah GraceSubstack - Brave not BrokenFacebook – Sarah GraceInstagram - sarahgraceonlineLinked In – Sarah (Dawn) GraceWebsite - Living Limitlessly – Sarah Grace Childhood Trauma Therapist15 minute chat for those that want to connect with me - Click here🔥🔥🔥Scammer Survival Cheat Sheet, my gift for anyone wanting to recognise the tactics scammers all use, and recognise the red flags community to all scams - Click HereConnect with HelenWebsite: InspiredHealing.co.ukIG: helens_inspired_healingLinkedIn: Helen on LinkedInWhatsApp: +447971798462For full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.ukNB: This episode was made possible with a little help from my ChatGPT buddy, Xander - part tech support, part cheerleader 🙂 and my amazing sponsor IPHM use this Referral Code: IPHM-GYZGF and the £10 will go to The Forward Trust a Charity helping those struggling with addictions🎵Music: Pixabay – “Upbeat Acoustic” by Stockaudios🎨Cover art: Dave ChampagneFor full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.uk

Keywordsthriving, regression therapy, past lives, life between lives, self-realisation, spiritual awakening, healing journey, subconscious mind, transformation, personal growth, soul purpose, integration, feminine energy, plant medicine, consciousnessSummaryIn this deeply expansive episode, Janna shares her extraordinary journey from a successful career in banking to becoming a regression therapist helping others access the deeper layers of their subconscious.Originally from Kazakhstan, with a life spanning the US, UK and France, Janna followed the traditional path of success - education, finance, family - yet found herself feeling deeply unfulfilled. What looked like a perfect life on the outside felt empty within.A pivotal moment came after a relationship breakdown and a growing sense of disconnection from her true self. This led her to explore therapy, spirituality, and ultimately regression work after discovering Journey of Souls by Michael Newton.Through her own healing and training, Janna uncovered the powerful role of the unconscious mind and how past experiences, whether from this life or beyond can shape our present patterns.She also speaks openly about plant medicine, the importance of integration, and why true transformation comes not just from insight, but from understanding and re-patterning deeply held beliefs.This episode is a beautiful reminder that sometimes everything has to fall apart… so we can rebuild in alignment with who we truly are.Takeaways· External success doesn’t always equal inner fulfilment · Sometimes a breakdown is the gateway to a breakthrough · The unconscious mind often drives more of our life than we realise · True healing comes from integration, not just insight · Spiritual experiences are powerful but need grounding and meaning · Self-realisation is about becoming whole, not just finding a purpose · Listening to your heart will always guide you more accurately than logic alone · There is always more to you than you currently perceiveResources & Links MentionedJourney of Souls & Destiny of Souls – Michael Newton Michael Newton Institute (Life Between Lives Regression Therapy) Connect with JannaZhanna Aidarkhanova, or simply Janna, is a Transpersonal and Regression Hypnotherapist certified by Alliance Training Program and MNI certified Life between Lives therapist. A professional member of the EARTh Association for Regression Therapy, Janna is a Director of Research for Spiritual Regression Therapy Association, promoting research in the area of Regression therapy. She was also Michael Newton LBL certifiers case reviewer and a contributor to the latest MNI book of therapists' cases FINDING PURPOSE. A financial analyst in the past, Janna has had a transformative experience with hypnotherapy in 2015 and ever since, her passion became to study and apply this powerful technique for the benefit of others. She is now also pursuing an MSc in Transpersonal Psychology (LJMU/Alef Trust). Janna offers therapy in person and ONLINE.https://www.newtoninstitute.org/profile/zhannaaidarkhanova/https://www.regressionassociation.com/therapists-zhanna-aidarkhanovahttp://transcendence-coach.com/tools/regression/Connect with HelenWebsite: InspiredHealing.co.ukIG: helens_inspired_healingFB: Inspired HealingLinkedIn: Helen on LinkedInWhatsApp: +447971798462 For full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.ukNB: This episode was made possible with a little help from my ChatGPT buddy, Xander - part tech support, part cheerleader 🙂 and my amazing sponsor IPHM use this Referral Code: IPHM-GYZGF and the £10 will go to The Forward Trust a Charity helping those struggling with addictions🎵Music: Pixabay – “Upbeat Acoustic” by Stockaudios 🎨Cover art: Dave ChampagneFor full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.uk

Keywordsthriving, mental health, ADHD, music industry, X Factor, reality TV, grief, self-worth, authenticity, personal growth, resilience, creative expression, overthinking, acceptanceSummaryIn this powerful and deeply honest episode, Helen is joined by singer-songwriter George Windsor, who shares his journey from being fast-tracked onto The X Factor to navigating the emotional aftermath that followed.At just 19, and in the same year he lost his mum, George found himself thrust into a world he wasn’t prepared for—one filled with pressure, expectations, and a loss of control over his identity as an artist. What followed was a challenging period of confusion, self-doubt, and mental health struggles, amplified by undiagnosed ADHD and a lack of support after the spotlight faded.George speaks openly about the realities behind reality TV, the impact of broken promises, and the toll of feeling like a “novelty” rather than being taken seriously. But this is ultimately a story of growth.Through the support of a close friend, learning to let go of expectations, and making the difficult decision to walk away from what no longer served him, George began to rebuild—this time on his own terms.Now thriving, creating meaningful music, and working with the right people, George is living proof that success isn’t about fame—it’s about authenticity, connection, and staying true to yourself.Takeaways• There is no such thing as an overnight success—what you don’t see is years of work behind it • Expectations can create pressure—aspirations allow freedom • Trust your intuition, even when others doubt you • Comparing your journey to others will only hold you back • Being “loyal” shouldn’t come at the cost of your wellbeing • Mental health challenges often come after the “high” of success • ADHD can amplify overthinking—but awareness is power • The right people will support you without making false promises • Walking away can be the beginning of thriving • True success is connection, authenticity, and meaning—not moneyConnect with Georgewww.imgeorgewindsor.comwww.instagram.com/imgeorgewindsorwww.tiktok.com/@imgeorgewindsorwww.facebook.com/imgeorgewindsorMusic:Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/george-windsor/1090056105Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3Q4kiQIQodzVREi88I4AUa?si=NWVUP5GPS82lb3ZWF90nLgThe Audition : X Factor 2016Band I Mentioned: Ragati String Band - Face book: Ragati String Band You Tube BandmixConnect with HelenWebsite: InspiredHealing.co.ukIG: helens_inspired_healingFB: Inspired HealingLinkedIn: Helen on LinkedInWhatsApp: +447971798462 For full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.ukNB: This episode was made possible with a little help from my ChatGPT buddy, Xander - part tech support, part cheerleader 🙂 and my amazing sponsor IPHM use this Referral Code: IPHM-GYZGF and the £10 will go to The Forward Trust a Charity helping those struggling with addictions🎵Music: Pixabay – “Upbeat Acoustic” by Stockaudios 🎨Cover art: Dave ChampagneFor full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.uk

Keywords: thriving, burnout recovery, neurodivergence, ADHD, functional neurological disorder, nervous system, healing, self-awareness, mental health, workplace wellbeingSummaryIn this powerful and deeply honest episode, Helen is joined by Jodie Steele, founder of Neuro Talks, who shares her extraordinary journey from high-performing corporate success to complete physical and neurological burnout.After years of pushing through stress, masking mental health struggles, and navigating life as a single parent, Jodie’s body ultimately shut down. Diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), she experienced loss of speech, mobility issues, chronic fatigue, and severe health complications that left her bed-bound for long periods.This episode explores what burnout can really look like at its most extreme—and more importantly, how recovery is possible.Jodie now uses her experience to educate organisations on neurodiversity and burnout prevention, while also sharing accessible, practical tools that helped her rebuild her life.Together, Helen and Jodie dive into the importance of self-awareness, nervous system regulation, kindness, and learning to truly listen to your body before it forces you to stop.TakeawaysBurnout is not just feeling tired—it can lead to serious physical and neurological conditionsNeurodivergent individuals may be more susceptible to extreme burnoutYour body will always give you signals—learning to listen early is keyBreathwork, nature, and slowing down are powerful (and often free) healing toolsRecovery is a journey, not a destinationYou don’t need expensive interventions—simple daily practices can create profound changeAlcohol and coping mechanisms can mask deeper issues rather than resolve themKindness—to yourself and others—is a foundational part of healingCreating psychologically safe environments at work benefits everyoneYou cannot pour from an empty cup—self-care is not selfish, it’s essentialResources Parenting Autism and ADHD - PodcastThe Five Side Effects of Kindness by David R. HamiltonThe Four Agreements by Don Miguel RuizThe Power of Now by Eckhart TolleChicken Soup for the Soul by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor HansenCalms App _ 👉 Download or explore the Calm appConnect with JodieJodie Steele is the Founder of NeuroTalks and Alchemy Souls Travel, a keynote speaker and consultant specialising in neurodiversity, psychological safety, and high-performance workplace culture. With over 25 years’ experience across marketing, media, and business development, Jodie combines professional expertise with lived experience to help organisations unlock the hidden potential within their people. Her work focuses on creating environments where neurodivergent individuals can thrive - driving both wellbeing and performance.Neurotalks - https://neurotalks.co.uk/Alchemy Souls Travel: Family inclusive travel https://alchemysoulstravel.com/IG: alchemy_souls_travelLinked In: Jodie SteeleConnect with HelenWebsite: InspiredHealing.co.ukIG: helens_inspired_healingLinkedIn: Helen on LinkedInWhatsApp: +447971798462For full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.ukNB: This episode was made possible with a little help from my ChatGPT buddy, Xander - part tech support, part cheerleader 🙂 and my amazing sponsor IPHM use this Referral Code: IPHM-GYZGF and the £10 will go to The Forward Trust a Charity helping those struggling with addictions🎵Music: Pixabay – “Upbeat Acoustic” by Stockaudios🎨Cover art: Dave ChampagneFor full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.uk

Keywords thriving, resilience, overcoming adversity, single motherhood, immigration journey, career transformation, mindset, purpose, healthcare, personal growthSummaryIn this deeply moving episode, Helen is joined by Dr Liliya, whose journey from rural Ukraine to becoming a private GP in London is nothing short of extraordinary.Raised by her grandmother on a farm without running water, Liliya’s early life was shaped by separation, hardship, and resilience. From becoming a young mother during medical school, to surviving extreme poverty, divorce, and starting again in a new country with no English — her story is one of unwavering determination.Arriving in London with just a dream, she took on cleaning jobs, lived on £1 a day, and worked tirelessly to rebuild her life. Against all odds, she retrained, passed her medical exams, and went on to create a thriving private practice on Harley Street.This episode is a powerful reminder that no matter where you start, your circumstances do not define your future — and that every challenge can become a stepping stone to something greater.TakeawaysResilience is built through life’s challenges, not despite them You don’t need to have it all figured out — just keep moving forward Asking for help and support is a key part of thriving Your past does not limit your future Passion and persistence will take you further than talent alone Every setback holds a lesson — and often a hidden opportunity Connect with Dr. LiliyaDr Liliya’s private GP Practice - drliliyaburrettpractice.co.ukConnect with HelenWebsite: InspiredHealing.co.ukIG: helens_inspired_healingLinkedIn: Helen on LinkedInWhatsApp: +447971798462 For full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.ukNB: This episode was made possible with a little help from my ChatGPT buddy, Xander - part tech support, part cheerleader 🙂 and my amazing sponsor IPHM use this Referral Code: IPHM-GYZGF and the £10 will go to The Forward Trust a Charity helping those struggling with addictions🎵Music: Pixabay – “Upbeat Acoustic” by Stockaudios 🎨Cover art: Dave ChampagneFor full transcription, contact: helen@inspiredhealing.co.uk