Will you be my friend?

In this episode, General Practitioner and host Dr Oscar Duke is joined by Professor Greg White, former Olympic athlete, sports scientist and Professor of Applied Sport and Exercise Science at Liverpool John Moores University. Together they explore why so many of us experience more aches, pains and stiffness as we age.During the conversation you’ll discover what happens to our muscles and joints over time, why strength becomes increasingly important as we get older, and how simple lifestyle changes can help us stay active, mobile, and independent for longer.Drawing on decades of experience in sport, exercise science and healthy ageing, Professor White shares practical advice on reducing stiffness, improving mobility, and building habits that support long-term physical wellbeing.We discuss:Why aches and pains become more common with ageThe importance of strength for joint health and stabilityHow movement can help manage stiffness and discomfortThe difference between muscle soreness and injuryWhy consistency matters more than intensity when it comes to exercisePractical ways to improve mobility, flexibility, and long-term healthSimple desk-based exercises to reduce stiffness throughout the dayBeyond Wellbeing is brought to you by Allianz. Follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode.Follow Professor Greg WhiteInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/profgregw/Website: https://thewhyteanswer.com/thewhyteclinic/Additional resources from AllianzWellness Hub:Healthy Ageing: Health, Prevention & Supporthttps://www.allianzcare.com/en/support/support-when-you-need-it-most/elderly-support.htmlBlogs:Beginner’s Guide to Low Impact Exercise:https://www.allianzcare.com/en/about-us/blog/beginners-low-impact-exercise.htmlThe Importance of Stretching at Work:https://www.allianzcare.com/en/about-us/blog/the-importance-of-stretching.htmlAbout AllianzProviding health, life and disability insurance and a range of health and wellness services, we are your global health partner. Every day, we help individuals, families, and employers to navigate healthcare and improve their quality of life. Our solutions are a unique combination of insurance, service, and technology. We provide next generation healthcare solutions, looking after people now and for years to come, with our vision of a healthier future. This vision extends beyond our customers, with the goal of creating a more lasting legacy and positively impacting wider communities.Find out more: www.allianzcare.com Follow us:https://www.facebook.com/AllianzCare/https://www.linkedin.com/company/54037/https://www.youtube.com/c/allianzcarehttps://www.instagram.com/allianzcare/https://x.com/AllianzCareDisclaimerThis content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you’re facing a health or safety emergency, contact a qualified professional or your local emergency services immediately. Laws vary by location, and this does not constitute legal advice. While we aim to provide accurate, up-to-date information, trends may evolve over time. Allianz does not accept liability for actions taken based on this content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, General Practitioner and host Dr Oscar Duke is joined by Dr Gillian Sandstrom, Professor in the Psychology of Kindness at the University of Sussex and author of Once Upon a Stranger, to explore the powerful role that social connection plays in our health and wellbeing.Together, they discuss the difference between loneliness, isolation and solitude, why connection is a fundamental human need, and how even small everyday interactions can boost wellbeing and foster a greater sense of belonging.Drawing on research and real-life examples, Dr Gillian shares practical ways to build confidence, strengthen social connections and overcome the barriers that can keep us apart.We discuss: The difference between loneliness, social isolation and solitude How social connection affects mental and physical wellbeing Why everyday interactions can help reduce loneliness The role of social media and modern lifestyles in shaping connection Practical ways to build confidence and connect with others How conversations with strangers can boost mood, confidence and a sense ofbelongingBeyond Wellbeing is brought to you by Allianz. Follow and subscribe so you never missan episode.Follow Dr Gillian Sandstrom:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drgilliansandstrom/Website: https://gilliansandstrom.comAdditional resources from AllianzBlogs:How to overcome expat loneliness:https://www.allianzcare.com/en/about-us/blog/expat-loneliness.htmlLoneliness in later life: 5 steps to feel more connected:https://www.allianzcare.com/en/about-us/blog/loneliness-in-later-life.htmlSocial isolation: how our ability to connect has changed:https://www.allianzcare.com/en/about-us/blog/social-isolation-and-how-our-ability-to-connect-has-changed.htmlAbout AllianzProviding health, life and disability insurance and a range of health and wellness services, we are your global health partner. Every day, we help individuals, families and employers to navigate healthcare and improve their quality of life. Our solutions are a unique combination of insurance, service, and technology. We provide next generation healthcare solutions, looking after people now and for years to come, with our vision of a healthier future. This vision extends beyond our customers, with the goal of creating a more lasting legacy and having a positive impact on wider communities.Find out more: www.allianzcare.comFollow us:https://www.facebook.com/AllianzCare/https://www.linkedin.com/company/54037/https://www.youtube.com/c/allianzcarehttps://www.instagram.com/allianzcare/https://x.com/AllianzCareDisclaimerThis content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you’re facing a health or safety emergency, contact a qualified professional or your local emergency services immediately.Laws vary by location, and this does not constitute legal advice. While we aim to provide accurate, up-to-date information, trends may evolve over time. Allianz does not accept liability for actions taken based on this content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, General Practitioner Dr Oscar Duke is joined by consultant bariatric surgeon and best-selling author Andrew Jenkinson to explore what determines our weight and why keeping it off can be so difficult.Weight is about more than simply willpower and calories. From genetics and metabolism to sleep, stress and the foods we eat, Dr Oscar and Andrew discuss the science of weight regulation, challenge common misconceptions about obesity and explain the concept of a "happy weight".From understanding appetite and hormones to exploring sustainable approaches to long-term health, this episode offers practical, evidence-informed insights to help listeners build healthier habits and achieve a more balanced relationship with food. We discuss: How to understand your personal healthy or "happy" weightThe role of genetics, metabolism and hormones in weight regulationHow nutrition, sleep and stress influence weightWhy sustainable habits outperform restrictive dietingThe benefits and limitations of GLP-1 weight loss medicationsBeyond Wellbeing is brought to you by Allianz. Follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode.Follow consultant bariatric surgeon Andrew Jenkinson:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drandrewjenkinson_/?hl=en-gbWebsite: Dr Andrew Jenkinson | Bariatric Surgeon London, GORD LondonAdditional resources from AllianzWellness Hub: Weight Management Hub and Nutrition HubWeight Management Hub: Diet, Exercise & Support | Allianz Nutrition Hub: Caring for Your Gut Health | Allianz CareFirst Dietitian Consultation Checklist: First Dietitian Consultation ChecklistAbout AllianzProviding health, life and disability insurance and a range of health and wellness services, we are your global health partner. Every day, we help individuals, families and employers to navigate healthcare and improve their quality of life. Our solutions are a unique combination of insurance, service, and technology. We provide next generation healthcare solutions, looking after people now and for years to come, with our vision of a healthier future. This vision extends beyond our customers, with the goal of creating a more lasting legacy and having a positive impact on wider communities. Find out more: www.allianzcare.comFollow us:https://www.facebook.com/AllianzCare/https://www.linkedin.com/company/54037/https://www.youtube.com/c/allianzcarehttps://www.instagram.com/allianzcare/https://x.com/AllianzCare DisclaimerThis content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you’re facing a health or safety emergency, contact a qualified professional or your local emergency services immediately. Laws vary by location, and this does not constitute legal advice. While we aim to provide accurate, up-to-date information, trends may evolve over time. Allianz does not accept liability for actions taken based on this content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, General Practitioner Dr Oscar Duke is joined by Professor CharlesSpence (University of Oxford) and ADHD Coach Kim To to explore why so many of usfeel overwhelmed in an always-on world.Sensory overload is a growing but often overlooked challenge. From constantnotifications to busy environments, modern life can place increasing strain on our focus,energy and mental wellbeing. Dr Oscar and his guests discuss how this overstimulationInternalimpacts our daily lives, and what we can do to reduce sensory overload and improveproductivity.From recognising early signs of sensory strain to building healthier habits, this episodeoffers practical, evidence-based suggestions to help you regain balance, improve focusand restore a sense of calm. We discuss:  What sensory overload is and how it affects wellbeing Early signs of hearing, vision and attention strain Practical tools to protect your sensory health Techniques to manage overstimulation Simple ways to increase calm and focus in everyday lifeBeyond Wellbeing is brought to you by Allianz. Follow and subscribe so you never missan episode.Follow Professor Charles Spence:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/professorspence/Website: https://www.psy.ox.ac.uk/people/charles-spenceFollow ADHD Coach Kim To:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ownyourflair/Website: ADHD Coaching | Own Your FlairAdditional resources from AllianzArticles - Embracing Global Mobility and NeurodiversityEmbracing Global Mobility and Neurodiversity | Allianz PartnersHow to enter flow state and boost your wellbeing:InternalHow to Enter Flow State and Boost Your WellbeingAbout AllianzProviding health, life and disability insurance and a range of health and wellnessservices, we are your global health partner. Every day, we help individuals, families, andemployers to navigate healthcare and improve their quality of life. Our solutions are aunique combination of insurance, service, and technology. We provide next generationhealthcare solutions, looking after people now and for years to come, with our vision ofa healthier future. This vision extends beyond our customers, with the goal of creating amore lasting legacy and having a positive impact on wider communities.Find out more: www.allianzcare.comFollow us:https://www.facebook.com/AllianzCare/https://www.linkedin.com/company/54037/https://www.youtube.com/c/allianzcarehttps://www.instagram.com/allianzcare/https://x.com/AllianzCareDisclaimerThis content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitutefor professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you’re facing a health orsafety emergency, contact a qualified professional or your local emergency servicesimmediately. Laws vary by location, and this does not constitute legal advice. While weaim to provide accurate, up-to-date information, trends may evolve over time. Allianzdoes not accept liability for actions taken based on this content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, General Practitioner Dr Oscar Duke is joined by sleep expert Dr Lindsay Browning to explore why so many of us feel tired all the time, and what’s really happening when we sleep.Constant fatigue is now one of the most common health complaints. Dr Oscar and Dr Lindsay unpack the science of sleep, explain how everyday habits drain our energy, and share practical, evidence-based tips to help you wake up feeling refreshed.From understanding sleep cycles to improving sleep hygiene, this episode offers simple changes that can make a powerful difference to your daily energy and overall wellbeing. We discuss: The everyday habits that cause chronic tiredness How lifestyle patterns shape sleep quality Which sleep tech can improve rest Science-based techniques to optimise sleep How to restore energy through small daily changes Beyond Wellbeing is brought to you by Allianz. Follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode.Follow Lindsay Browning:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbrowningsleep/ Website: https://troublesleeping.co.uk_/ Additional resources from AllianzArticles - Am I Sleep Deprived?  Key Signs and Symptoms: https://www.allianzcare.com/en/about-us/blog/am-i-sleep-deprived.html The Link Between Sleep and Work Performance: https://www.allianzcare.com/en/about-us/blog/link-between-sleep-and-work-performance.html About AllianzProviding health, life and disability insurance and a range of health and wellness services, we are your global health partner. Every day, we help individuals, families, and employers to navigate healthcare and improve their quality of life. Our solutions are a unique combination of insurance, service, and technology. We provide next generation healthcare solutions, looking after people now and for years to come, with our vision of a healthier future. This vision extends beyond our customers, with the goal of creating a more lasting legacy and having a positive impact on wider communities. Find out more: www.allianzcare.comFollow us:https://www.facebook.com/AllianzCare/https://www.linkedin.com/company/54037/https://www.youtube.com/c/allianzcarehttps://www.instagram.com/allianzcare/https://x.com/AllianzCare DisclaimerThis content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you’re facing a health or safety emergency,  contact a qualified professional or your local emergency services immediately.  Laws vary by location, and this does not constitute legal advice. While we aim to provide accurate, up-to-date information, trends may evolve over time. Allianz does not accept liability for actions taken based on this content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, General Practitioner Dr Oscar Duke and Clinical Psychologist Dr Martha Deiros Collado explore how digital overload affects anxiety, emotional development and resilience in young people.  How can families support children’s mental health in a world of constant screens, social media, and digital pressure? We'll look at evidence-based strategies to build healthy digital habits, strengthen emotional resilience and help kids thrive both online and offline. You’ll also hear from real families trying to reduce screen time, reshape digital routines and create more mindful tech habits together. We discuss: The impact of screen time and social media on children’s mental healthWhy anxiety and depression are rising in young peoplePractical tools for setting healthier digital boundariesHow to build emotional resilience in childrenSimple ways to create positive family tech routines Beyond Wellbeing is brought to you by Allianz. Follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Follow Dr Martha Deiros Collado:InstagramWebsite Additional resources from Allianz:Article - Understanding Harmful Emojis and Protecting Your Child Online : https://www.allianzcare.com/en/about-us/blog/understanding-harmful-emojis-and-protecting-your-child-online.htmlParenting and Digital Wellbeing resources on our Mental Wellness Hub: https://www.allianzcare.com/en/support/health-and-wellness/mental-wellness.html About AllianzProviding health, life and disability insurance and a range of health and wellness services, we are your global health partner. Every day, we help individuals, families, and employers to navigate healthcare and improve their quality of life. Our solutions are a unique combination of insurance, service, and technology. We provide next generation healthcare solutions, looking after people now and for years to come, with our vision of a healthier future. This vision extends beyond our customers, with the goal of creating a more lasting legacy and having a positive impact on wider communities.Find out more: www.allianzcare.com Follow us:https://www.facebook.com/AllianzCare/https://www.linkedin.com/company/54037/https://www.youtube.com/c/allianzcarehttps://www.instagram.com/allianzcare/https://x.com/AllianzCare DisclaimerThis content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you’re facing a health or safety emergency,  contact a qualified professional or your local emergency services immediately. Laws vary by location, and this does not constitute legal advice. While we aim to provide accurate, up-to-date information, trends may evolve over time. Allianz does not accept liability for actions taken based on this content.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 1 available on Thursday 5th February 2026 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.