Small Steps - Journalling

50 things at 50: Being Curious with Alan RoseWhat if one simple mindset could make life richer, more exciting and more meaningful?This week we're joined by Alan Rose (Instagram: @iamalanrose), author of Be Curious, to explore the incredible opportunities that can come from saying "yes" to new experiences.As Alan approached his 50th birthday, he challenged himself to create a list of 50 things to do in his 50th year. What started as a personal challenge became a life-changing journey—and the inspiration for his first book.From going for a pedicure with his daughter, to attending a live sex show with his wife, to getting into the saddle on horseback, Alan embraced experiences that pushed him beyond his comfort zone, strengthened relationships and reminded him that life is meant to be lived.This isn't about ticking off a bucket list—it's about choosing curiosity over routine, fear and self-imposed limits.In this episode we discuss:Why curiosity is one of life's greatest superpowers.The story behind Alan's book, Be Curious.How a list of 50 experiences transformed his outlook on life.Stepping outside your comfort zone without feeling overwhelmed.Why saying "yes" creates confidence and lasting memories.The importance of shared experiences with the people you love.What Alan learned from trying completely new activities.Why age should never stop you from trying something different.How small acts of curiosity can lead to a happier, fuller life.Alan's 1% TipBe curious. Try something new. You never know where one small "yes" might lead.Life doesn't always need a complete reinvention. Sometimes it simply needs a little more curiosity.🎙️ Loved This Episode?If you enjoyed this conversation, we'd love you to subscribe, leave us a review and share this episode with someone who could do with a little more adventure in their life.What's one new thing you've always wanted to try?Every episode is designed to help you become 1% happier and healthier, one small step at a time.A big thank you to Pixabay for providing our intro and outro music, "Inspirational Background" by AudioCoffee.Ann & SallyxxAnn & Sally xxStay Connected with Us:Follow us on Instagram: @happierandhealthier__Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17An2r6AFE/? Have questions or want to join our Facebook community, email us at [email protected] this link to receive our monthly news letter zfrmz.com/y2clyxhSheOWEJ9EjaS6Follow this link to get more information about our 1% Happier and Healthier Programme https://tinyurl.com/HHinfoplsHappier and Healthier linktree https://linktr.ee/1percenthappierandhealthier?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc8e983b-b24b-47b4-9624-041b8d3c7592If you'd like Alan's book you can find it on Amazon herehttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Be-Curious-imperfect-adventure-chasing/dp/B0FZCPJ88J/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3RO2WH1MHGX1G&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.MJMqQchf0pzjATv4Nb0U5w.yuQTfAlB3m45A7OZhnfBIj25605C4XKtGRVZ65gcOXs&dib_tag=se&keywords=be+curious+alan+rose&qid=1783865818&s=books&sprefix=be+curious+alan+rose%2Cstripbooks%2C120&sr=1-1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To-Do, To-Don’t & Ta-Da ListsWhat if productivity wasn’t just about doing more?In this episode, we’re rethinking the traditional to-do list and introducing three simple tools that can help you feel more focused, less overwhelmed, and far kinder to yourself:✔️ The To-Do List — what truly matters❌ The To-Don’t List — the habits, distractions, and pressures that drain your energy🎉 The Ta-Da List — a powerful way to recognise what you have achieved instead of constantly focusing on what’s left undoneWe talk about why so many women live in a constant cycle of pressure and never-ending tasks, and how small mindset shifts can help you feel more in control and more accomplished every single day.Because sometimes the most important thing isn’t doing more — it’s noticing how much you already do.🎙️ Loved This Episode?If this episode resonated:Share it with a friendFollow the podcast for more simple, powerful life shiftsLeave us a review — it helps more women take that first stepA big thank you to Pixabay for providing our intro and outro music, “Inspirational Background” by AudioCoffee.Ann & SallyxxStay Connected with UsFollow us on Instagram: @happierandhealthier__Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17An2r6AFE/? Have questions or want to join our Facebook community, email us at [email protected] this link to receive our monthly news letter zfrmz.com/y2clyxhSheOWEJ9EjaS6Follow this link to get more information about our 1% Happier and Healthier Programme https://tinyurl.com/HHinfoplsHappier and Healthier linktree https://linktr.ee/1percenthappierandhealthier?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc8e983b-b24b-47b4-9624-041b8d3c7592 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trusting the Process & Finding Yourself Through Art | Laura's JourneyWhat if slowing down gave you the space to discover who you really are?For Laura, the Covid lockdown became an unexpected opportunity to pause, reflect and reconnect with her creativity. What started as an art class soon grew into a passion that inspired her to apply for a Fine Art degree. Today, she's taking another leap of faith—selling the family home and moving to London to immerse herself in the creative community.In this inspiring conversation, Laura shares how connecting with nature, trusting her instincts and embracing uncertainty has transformed both her art and her life.We talk about:🎨 How lockdown created the space to rediscover creativity🌿 Why mindful walks in nature are the starting point for every painting👀 How her artwork captures a feeling, a moment and a personal perception of the landscape💭 The importance of slowing down enough to really notice the world around us✨ Why trusting the process and following your instincts can lead you exactly where you're meant to be🏙️ The courage it takes to sell the family home and move to London to pursue a life surrounded by fellow artistsLaura's story is a beautiful reminder that we don't always need to have everything mapped out. Sometimes, by embracing change, trusting ourselves and staying open to possibility, life unfolds in ways we could never have planned.If you've ever felt the pull to try something new, reconnect with nature, or follow a dream that won't leave you alone, this episode is for you.🎙️ Loved This Episode?If Laura's story resonated with you, we'd love you to subscribe, leave us a review and share this episode with someone who might be standing at a crossroads in their own life.If you've been wondering whether it's time for a change, perhaps this conversation is the gentle reminder you needed that small steps can lead to a completely different future.Thanks for listening!Ann & Sally xxEvery episode is designed to help you become 1% happier and healthier, one small step at a time.A big thank you to Pixabay for providing our intro and outro music, "Inspirational Background" by AudioCoffee.Stay Connected with Us:Follow us on Instagram: @happierandhealthier__Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17An2r6AFE/? Have questions or want to join our Facebook community, email us at [email protected] this link to receive our monthly news letter zfrmz.com/y2clyxhSheOWEJ9EjaS6Follow this link to get more information about our 1% Happier and Healthier Programme https://tinyurl.com/HHinfoplsHappier and Healthier linktree https://linktr.ee/1percenthappierandhealthier?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc8e983b-b24b-47b4-9624-041b8d3c7592Connect with Laura on instagram laurarobersfineart Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Create Your Badass ListWhen was the last time you stopped and really recognised how far you’ve come?In this episode, we’re talking about creating your own Badass List — a powerful reminder of everything you’ve overcome, achieved, survived, and handled, even when life felt hard.So many women focus on what they haven’t done, instead of celebrating the strength, resilience, courage, and everyday wins they already have. Your Badass List is proof that you are far more capable than your inner critic wants you to believe.This episode is your reminder to stop downplaying yourself and start owning the incredible things you’ve already done.🎙️ Loved This Episode?If this episode resonated:Share it with a friendFollow the podcast for more simple, powerful life shiftsLeave us a review — it helps more women take that first stepA big thank you to Pixabay for providing our intro and outro music, “Inspirational Background” by AudioCoffee.Ann & SallyxxStay Connected with UsFollow us on Instagram: @happierandhealthier__Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17An2r6AFE/? Have questions or want to join our Facebook community, email us at [email protected] this link to receive our monthly news letter zfrmz.com/y2clyxhSheOWEJ9EjaS6Follow this link to get more information about our 1% Happier and Healthier Programme https://tinyurl.com/HHinfoplsHappier and Healthier linktree https://linktr.ee/1percenthappierandhealthier?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc8e983b-b24b-47b4-9624-041b8d3c7592 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Real Women, Real Stories – Life With a Urostomy: With Unstoppable JulieOctober 2026 marks the first ever Urostomy Awareness Month, and in this episode of Real Women, Real Stories, Julie joins us to help break the stigma, start conversations and raise awareness of what it means to live with a urostomy.Julie was just four years old when doctors discovered she didn't have a bladder and she had life-changing stoma surgery in 1975.But having a urostomy has certainly never defined what Julie can do.Inspired by—and determined to keep up with—her older brother, Julie threw herself into sport from an early age. She attended mainstream school, joined in with swimming lessons and developed an attitude to life that has seen her continually challenge expectations.Today, Julie is a qualified Pilates instructor who happily takes on multiple classes at her local gym. She's cycled coast to coast from Whitehaven to Tynemouth, run marathons and continues to lead an incredibly active life.In this uplifting conversation, we talk about:💜 Growing up with a urostomy from the age of four🗣️ Why Urostomy Awareness Month matters and the importance of breaking the stigma🏊 Being encouraged to participate rather than being treated differently💪 The role sport and movement have played throughout Julie's life🚴 Taking on the Whitehaven-to-Tynemouth coast-to-coast cycling challenge🏃‍♀️ Running marathons and refusing to put limits on what's possible🧘‍♀️ Becoming a Pilates instructor and continuing to embrace an active lifestyle🍫 Julie's wonderfully simple 1% happier and healthier habits: start every morning with a glass of water and enjoy a little piece of chocolate every evening!Julie's story is a wonderful reminder that our circumstances don't have to determine the size of our lives.By sharing her story during the first Urostomy Awareness Month, Julie hopes to increase understanding, challenge misconceptions and show what's possible when we focus on what we can do rather than what we can't.🎙️ Loved This Episode?If Julie's story inspires you, please share this episode. You might just help someone living with a urostomy feel a little less alone—and help more people understand life with a stoma.If you're looking for practical ways to improve your wellbeing, this episode is packed with simple, evidence-based advice that you can start putting into practice today.Every episode is designed to help you become 1% happier and healthier, one small step at a time.A big thank you to Pixabay for providing our intro and outro music, "Inspirational Background" by AudioCoffee.Ann & Sally xxStay Connected with Us:Follow us on Instagram: @happierandhealthier__Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17An2r6AFE/? Have questions or want to join our Facebook community, email us at [email protected] this link to receive our monthly news letter zfrmz.com/y2clyxhSheOWEJ9EjaS6Follow this link to get more information about our 1% Happier and Healthier Programme https://tinyurl.com/HHinfoplsHappier and Healthier linktree https://linktr.ee/1percenthappierandhealthier?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc8e983b-b24b-47b4-9624-041b8d3c7592Connect with Julie on InstagramJoo_m_w and fitafterfifty5Urostomy Association https://share.google/ZeC7xs2a5dbPbxFCK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Know Your EnergyIn this episode, we’re talking about the power of understanding your own energy — because not every day is a “smash the to-do list” kind of day.We explore how noticing your natural highs and lows can help you plan better, stop fighting yourself, and make choices that support you rather than drain you. From knowing when you’re at your best, to recognising when you need rest, this is all about working with your energy, not against it.A simple reminder that being 1% happier and healthier starts with listening to yourself.🎙️ Loved This Episode?If this episode resonated:Share it with a friendFollow the podcast for more simple, powerful life shiftsLeave us a review — it helps more women take that first stepA big thank you to Pixabay for providing our intro and outro music, “Inspirational Background” by AudioCoffee.Ann & SallyxxAnn & Sally xxStay Connected with Us:Follow us on Instagram: @happierandhealthier__Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17An2r6AFE/? Have questions or want to join our Facebook community, email us at [email protected] this link to receive our monthly news letter zfrmz.com/y2clyxhSheOWEJ9EjaS6Follow this link to get more information about our 1% Happier and Healthier Programme https://tinyurl.com/HHinfoplsHappier and Healthier linktree https://linktr.ee/1percenthappierandhealthier?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc8e983b-b24b-47b4-9624-041b8d3c7592 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Real Women Real Stories - Turning Pain into Purpose with Debs BrownGrief is something every one of us will experience, yet so few of us are taught how to understand it, process it or support others through it.This week we're joined by Deb Brown, founder of Lessons in Loss, former headteacher and specialist in grief recovery, for a powerful conversation about loss, healing and why our schools need to do so much more to support children and young people.Deb's journey began with a moment that stopped her in her tracks.A friend gently pointed out that she'd been unusually snappy while ordering a coffee. It was a small comment, but it prompted a huge realisation. She wasn't angry at all—she was carrying unresolved grief following the death of her mum.As she began to explore her own experience, Deb uncovered a significant gap in education. Schools are often expected to support children through some of life's most difficult experiences, yet many teachers have received little or no training in grief.What happens when a class loses a teacher? A child loses a parent, grandparent or beloved pet? A family is affected by suicide? Or a parent goes to prison?Determined to make a difference, Deb immersed herself in the research and has developed resources for schools and works with education settings across the UK, helping children, families and school staff better understand grief and recovery.Alongside her professional work, Deb shares the daily practices that have supported her own healing—including gratitude journalling and learning to challenge negative self-talk by consciously "flipping" it into something kinder and more constructive.In this episode we discuss:The unexpected moment that helped Debs recognise her own unresolved grief.Why grief often shows up in ways we don't expect.The hidden impact of bereavement on children and young people.Why schools need better education and support around grief and loss.Supporting children through the death of a parent, family member, friend or pet.How Deb became a specialist in grief recovery.Writing books and journals to help children process difficult emotions.The power of gratitude as part of everyday wellbeing.How to recognise negative self-talk and gently "flip it" into a more compassionate inner voice.Deb's 1% TipPractice gratitude every day and be aware of your inner dialogue. When negative thoughts appear, pause and ask yourself how you can 'flip' them into something more helpful and compassionate.Small changes in the way we speak to ourselves can make a profound difference to how we experience life.🎙️ Loved This Episode?If this conversation resonated with you, please subscribe, leave us a review and share it with someone who may be navigating grief themselves or supporting someone who is.Grief isn't something to "get over"—it's something we learn to carry. Conversations like this help us do it with more understanding, compassion and hope.Every episode is designed to help you become 1% happier and healthier, one small step at a time.A big thank you to Pixabay for providing our intro and outro music, "Inspirational Background" by AudioCoffee.Ann & SallyxxAnn & Sally xxStay Connected with Us:Follow us on Instagram: @happierandhealthier__Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17An2r6AFE/? Have questions or want to join our Facebook community, email us at [email protected] this link to receive our monthly news letter zfrmz.com/y2clyxhSheOWEJ9EjaS6Follow this link to get more information about our 1% Happier and Healthier Programme https://tinyurl.com/HHinfoplsHappier and Healthier linktree https://linktr.ee/1percenthappierandhealthier?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc8e983b-b24b-47b4-9624-041b8d3c7592Connect with Deb Brown on instagram - lessons_in_loss Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

JournallingSometimes the most honest conversations we have are the ones we have with ourselves ✨In this episode, we explore the power of journalling and why putting your thoughts onto paper can be one of the simplest but most effective tools for improving your mental and emotional wellbeing.We talk about how journalling can help you process emotions, reduce overwhelm, notice patterns, gain clarity and reconnect with yourself in the middle of busy everyday life.Whether it’s writing down worries, gratitude, goals, thoughts or tiny wins, journalling creates space to pause, reflect and understand what’s really going on beneath the surface.And the best part? There’s no right or wrong way to do it 💛This episode is a reminder that you don’t need perfect words, a fancy notebook or hours of spare time — sometimes a few honest sentences can change the way you feel.🎙️ Loved This Episode?If this episode resonated:Share it with a friendFollow the podcast for more simple, powerful life shiftsLeave us a review — it helps more women take that first stepA big thank you to Pixabay for providing our intro and outro music, "Inspirational Background" by AudioCoffee.Ann & SallyxxStay Connected with UsFollow us on Instagram: @happierandhealthier__Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17An2r6AFE/? Have questions or want to join our Facebook community, email us at [email protected] this link to receive our monthly news letter zfrmz.com/y2clyxhSheOWEJ9EjaS6Follow this link to get more information about our 1% Happier and Healthier Programme https://tinyurl.com/HHinfoplsHappier and Healthier linktree https://linktr.ee/1percenthappierandhealthier?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc8e983b-b24b-47b4-9624-041b8d3c7592 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Real Women Real Stories - Meet Mrs MotivatorMichelle Lewis from Step Forward with LewisWhat if one conversation could completely change the direction of your life?After experiencing failed IVF, Michelle found herself searching for something positive to focus on. At 38, a friend suggested she train for a marathon—a simple idea that became the catalyst for an extraordinary new chapter.She started with a half marathon, raising money for the National Autistic Society, before taking on a full marathon in support of Alfie's Brain Tumour charity. It was then that Michelle experienced a powerful realisation: helping others gave her a sense of purpose unlike anything she'd felt before.In this uplifting episode, Michelle shares how following that feeling has led to a life built around community, kindness and making a difference.We talk about:❤️ How running became the turning point after failed IVF🏃‍♀️ Why fundraising through half marathons and marathons gave her a new sense of purpose💡 The lightbulb moment that inspired her to dedicate her life to helping others💃 Creating a neighbourhood community during Covid with weekly themed dance sessions🌳 Her role as a Parkrun Race Director and the joy of bringing people together through movement💪 Leaving her previous career to become a Personal Trainer, specialising in supporting people living with cancer and Parkinson's🏆 Launching her own business, Step Forward with Lewis👞 Why she's become renowned for her fascinating Northampton shoe factory walking tours and her passion for sharing local historyMichelle is one of those people who leaves every person and every community a little better than she found it. Her story is a reminder that purpose often grows from the most unexpected moments, and that the smallest act of encouragement can change the course of a life.If you're looking for inspiration to find your purpose, give back to your community or simply take that first small step, this episode is for you.🎙️ Loved This Episode?If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe, leave us a review and share it with someone who could benefit from a reminder that good health starts with small daily choices.If you're looking for practical ways to improve your wellbeing, this episode is packed with simple, evidence-based advice that you can start putting into practice today.Every episode is designed to help you become 1% happier and healthier, one small step at a time.A big thank you to Pixabay for providing our intro and outro music, "Inspirational Background" by AudioCoffee.Ann & Sally xxStay Connected with Us:Follow us on Instagram: @happierandhealthier__Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17An2r6AFE/? Have questions or want to join our Facebook community, email us at [email protected] this link to receive our monthly news letter zfrmz.com/y2clyxhSheOWEJ9EjaS6Follow this link to get more information about our 1% Happier and Healthier Programme https://tinyurl.com/HHinfoplsHappier and Healthier linktree https://linktr.ee/1percenthappierandhealthier?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc8e983b-b24b-47b4-9624-041b8d3c7592Connect with Michelle LewisInstagram- Step Forward with LewisFacebook pages:Step Forward with LewisStep Forward with Lewis CICNorthampton Shoe Factory Tours Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Controlling Your FinancesMoney worries can quietly affect every part of our wellbeing — our stress levels, confidence, relationships and even how trapped or free we feel 💛In this episode, we talk about taking back control of your finances in a realistic, manageable way without shame, overwhelm or needing to have everything figured out overnight.We explore why so many women avoid looking at their finances, how small steps can create a huge sense of empowerment, and practical ways to feel more organised, informed and in control of your money.From understanding spending habits and tackling financial avoidance to creating breathing space and making intentional choices, this episode is all about reducing fear and building confidence one small step at a time.Because financial wellbeing isn’t just about numbers in a bank account… it’s about creating freedom, options and peace of mind ✨🎙️ Loved This Episode?If this episode resonated:Share it with a friendFollow the podcast for more simple, powerful life shiftsLeave us a review — it helps more women take that first stepA big thank you to Pixabay for providing our intro and outro music, "Inspirational Background" by AudioCoffee.Ann & SallyxxStay Connected with UsFollow us on Instagram: @happierandhealthier__Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17An2r6AFE/? Have questions or want to join our Facebook community, email us at [email protected] this link to receive our monthly news letter zfrmz.com/y2clyxhSheOWEJ9EjaS6Follow this link to get more information about our 1% Happier and Healthier Programme https://tinyurl.com/HHinfoplsHappier and Healthier linktree https://linktr.ee/1percenthappierandhealthier?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=cc8e983b-b24b-47b4-9624-041b8d3c7592 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.