Striking the right note..

Well I took a break for the Summer, I hadn't realised quite how long I'd left it. However today seems appropriate to publish my latest edition of Mim's Moments. As today 30th September is international podcast day.Having an hour to focus on yourself through using photography as a meditative tool, really helps with my mental health and I think it helps others too. I took my phone with me on one of my wellbeing photography sessions, recording at Arley Arboretum. You can hear the water features and other visitors in the background. My heart felt thanks to Sarah Charlton, Beth Howells, Olwen Davies and Chrissy Flavin for talking about their experiences on my course. On hearing it back I realised I forgot to introduce everybody. So firstly you will hear from Sarah, then Beth, followed by Olwen and then Chrissy. If you'd like to have a wellbeing photography session get in touch via email at [email protected]

I'm often asked what is a wellbeing photographer, in today's episode I give you a little more information about how photography can be used as a meditative tool.Photography has always been a big part of my life alongside art and creativity. As a former press photographer sometimes my camera would cause me stress trying to send my pictures to deadlines and sometimes taking photographs that I would not have chosen to do.However since I stopped working full time as a press photographer, my camera has returned as a sense of calm and wellbeing when I use it just for myself. Looking through the lens I can choose what I want to see and only concentrate on the beauty I see in front of me.So take a deep breath and a moment of calm as I talk about the benefits of using photography as part of your wellbeing.Remembering that the best lens you own is your own eyes and imagination.

On today's episode I am talking to Hannah Darby a modern day healer, or should I say spiritualist healer. She is so much more than that though. Her she puts her heart and soul into helping people deal with grief, using her own life experiences alongside professional wisdom, she helps clients navigate the challenges of healing with deep compassion, empathy, and understanding.At Healing with Hannah, your healing journey is Hannah’s top priority. She provides transformative therapies that blend both science and spirituality to restore your well-being. With over 26 years of experience, including years in healthcare, she specialises in guiding individuals through their grief, trauma, and emotional healing. Her new book is called:Safe to Grieve: Reclaiming your Right to H.E.A.L.®, Feel and Rise AgainWhich is available now on Kindle and in paperback in June. If you found today's episode helpful and would like to know more, please get in touch with Hannah in either of the ways listed below. Email - [email protected] Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/healingwithhannahdarby Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/healingwithhannahd/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahdarbyhealingwithhannah/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@HealingwithHannah-hwhWebsite - https://www.healingwithhannah.co.ukAmazon Author profile: https://www.amazon.com/author/hannahdarby

https://redbarrow.co.uk/On today's episode I am talking to Amy Dyble an independent mortgage adviser, she is passionate about helping those who think they can't get a mortgage. Busting myths for example, you can't get a mortgage if you've been bankrupt or are on universal credit. She is all about empowering the little guy. Popping them into her red barrow and wheeling them into their own home!Here is what Amy had to say about her reason for why she chose Red Barrow as her business name.When you think of a wheelbarrow, what comes to mind? For many, it’s an essential tool in the garden, helping to move stone, earth, plants, or even weeds. It’s there when you’re mixing cement or setting paving slabs into place. In essence, a wheelbarrow is all about movement and progress, whether you’re building something new, fixing what’s broken, or creating something beautiful from the ground up.In many ways, this is how I see my role as a mortgage adviser. Just like that wheelbarrow, I help people move forward, whether it’s into their first home, their forever home, or the next chapter of their life. A mortgage can feel like a heavy load, but with the right support, it becomes a tool that helps you build the foundation for something truly exciting.

In my opinion women want support, in today's episode I'm talking to Karina O'Neill a Worcester based photographer who provides that support through her photography and advice and guidance she gives to new Mums who want to breastfeed. I couldn't think of a better person to interview in the month of International Women's day and even better I'm celebrating 10 years in business to.Here is a little bit about Karina in her own words:Karina moved to Worcestershire from London in 2021 and has embraced countryside life ever since. She takes families on photoshoots in some of the county's most scenic parts and also volunteers as an NCT walk leader. Her natural and candid style helps new parents feel relaxed and comfortable. As she always says, “Think of me as your mum-friend popping over for a cup of tea or taking you on a walk - your photoshoot will be fun and easier than you imagined.” https://www.karinaoneillphoto.co.uk/meet-me

On today's Mim's Moments I'm joined by Nicola Holmes, an ADHD Therapeutic Coach - Neurodivergent Specialist | Supervisor | Trainer and now author!I met Nicola at one of The Women Who Business Community networking events in Pershore. Straight away I felt her calming presence and was intrigued by her story of discovering later in life that she had ADHD which she says herself, looking back on her life explained so much especially when it came to dating and relationships.With this in mind and all of her expertise, she decided to be brave and own her story and perhaps inspire others. In this episode she talks about how the book came into being and the journey she's had with it. The book aims to rewire your brain for dating. A bit more about the book:"... it depended on whether I was horny or hungry!!"'A Guide to Dopamine Dating' unpacks why your brain lights up like a pinball machine when you match, text or connect through sexual energy.Mixing psychology, pop culture and humour, Author -Nicola Joy Holmes (Neurodivergent Specialist),explores - with warmth and wit - why dating can feel extra tricky for people whose brains might process love, attraction and social cues differently.You’ll learn how to embrace those differences and navigate the modern dating maze on your terms.As well as talking about her Equinox Retreat coming up in March.So if you're looking to treat someone this Valentines or are looking for help on the dating scene, then get in touch with Nicola, buy her book and book onto her retreat.https://www.amazon.co.uk/Guide-Dopamine-Dating-Rewiring-Romance/dp/1036972364/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Yj1A63posOrX3Zr--kzP5wOLgGElAvkZ96qjaw-V8YQ.ZhXiwtnyoD_SWxskq6UUjZZnK9P9oqT6X9z_V8QUWpA&dib_tag=se&keywords=Dopamine+guide+to+dating+by+Nicola+Joy+Holmes&qid=1770734916&sr=8-1#detailBullets_feature_divhttps://www.timeforyoucounsellingglos.com/

On my first podcast of the New Year, I'm talking to the lovely Rachel Nicholls of RJ Fitness &Coaching. I have been trying to improve my fitness for years but I've always been put off by gyms and quite frankly I've been lazy thinking I haven't got time for it.Well now I do and it's all thanks to Rachel and how she's helped me change my mindset. I particularly love her stronger4longer club, with like minded women who are there to offer support and encouragement. As well as Rachel's movement snacks which are bitesize exercises you can do around your daily routine. Enough about me, listen to what Rachel had to say about making exercise fun, without the need for any expensive gym gear.Let's get physical.. https://linktr.ee/rjfitnessandcoachinghttps://www.rjfitness.co.uk/

I have been a fan of Laima Kasatkina a Kidderminster based harpist, I've heard her play and it's beautiful. So when I found out she was bringing her harp into Brookdale Nursing Home in Kidderminster, I decided to go along to record and speak to the residents, who were naturals with the baby harps.My thanks to Emma Deakin Activities Co-ordinator and residents Thelma, Sylvia, Jean and Margaret.And of course Laima. You can follow her on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/nikitalaima/

https://jessicashieldscoaching.co.uk/On today's podcast I'm talking to Jess Shields a development coach. I must admit I used to think coaches were for people on a team, not for an individual but I've learnt so much throughout my time networking, that I've discovered more business/life coaches than ever. So I wanted to find out more, what does a coach do, how do I find one right for me.Here is a little bit about Jess, taken from her website which is in the link above.Meet Jess, a highly skilled Coach and Master Practitioner in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) based in the West Midlands. Jess has devoted her career to supporting individuals in achieving their professional and personal aspirations through coaching and training in a variety of diverse environments.With an initial focus on coaching and mentoring students aged 16-18 in Further Education, Jess founded ‘Jessica Shields Coaching Ltd’ in 2015. Since then, she has diversified her reach and skills by offering NLP-informed coaching to adults in multiple industries, including education, healthcare, NHS, prison and probation services, professional services, manufacturing, community interest companies and not-for-profits. Jess has honed her ability to work flexibly within different contexts, always striving to find practical and effective solutions to each clients unique needs. She has certainly enjoyed the variety over the years!

On today's episode I am talking to Cllr George Connolly, Kidderminster Town Council's youngest Mayor for the year 2024. I was lucky enough to take some pictures for the council though out his term, at different events. He was always very friendly and approachable and the people really seemed to like him, especially the younger generation.I asked what it was like to be the Mayor of his hometown, being a part of it's history and what moments stuck out for him.As part of his Mayoral year he fundraised for theMND Association a charity close to his heart, raising an incredible £4, 828!If you would like to find out more about the MND association and to make a donation please see the details below:https://www.mndassociation.org/get-involved/donations