Healing the Past: Navigating Trauma, PTSD, and Personal Empowerment

Send us a textEver wonder how a simple trip can transform your life? Join me, Lucy, and my fellow adventurer Karen on our podcast episode as we share personal stories that highlight the profound impact travel has had on us. From the teenage thrills of interrailing to the unexpected wonder of landing on the wrong island, our tales reflect the beauty and chaos that comes with embracing the unknown. Discover how stepping out of our comfort zones and into diverse cultures fuels our dreams and fosters friendships that span the globe.Imagine a journey that not only tests your limits but also strengthens your resolve. We explore our most memorable travel experiences, like the breathtaking sunset in Florence and the challenging climbs in North Wales. Each story showcases how travel challenges unlock our inner resilience and connect us with the deeper parts of ourselves. Karen and I discuss the kindness of strangers we've encountered and the personal growth achieved through these adventures, proving that the road less traveled is often the most rewarding.Travel isn't just about physical destinations; it's a metaphor for self-discovery and mindfulness. We dive into our experiences of using visualization and meditation as tools to maintain creativity and mental health, especially during stressful times like the pandemic. Whether it's the comfort of childhood memories or the thrill of new adventures, we encourage you to travel light and with purpose. Join us as we inspire you to embark on your own meaningful journeys, filled with humor, intention, and the joy of exploration.

Send us a textAfter navigating the whirlwind of motherhood with triplets while juggling her career, Leela Green joins us to share her transformative journey from coping with mum guilt to mastering self-compassion. If you've ever felt the weight of perfectionism, especially as the festive season looms, Leela's story and expertise will resonate deeply. As a former book editor turned coach, she offers invaluable insights into managing the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood, particularly during the holidays when pressures can peak.Leela takes us through the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship and the demands of being a parent, revealing her personal epiphanies about self-care and the perils of striving for unattainable standards. Her candid reflections shed light on the importance of listening to your body and adjusting to motherhood's unique demands, especially when faced with the complexities of a high-risk pregnancy. Through her experiences, we explore strategies for maintaining realistic expectations and finding peace amidst chaos, offering a relatable perspective for anyone juggling career and family life.As we discuss the societal pressures and expectations surrounding new mothers, Leela encourages moms to chart their own course, trusting their instincts over societal norms. The conversation becomes particularly poignant as we explore the festive period, emphasizing the need for authentic Christmas traditions that prioritize love and connection. With tips on managing holiday stress and setting boundaries, Leela reminds us of the joy in simple, heartfelt traditions that align with personal values rather than conforming to external pressures. Join us for a heartfelt and empowering discussion that aims to foster a kinder, more compassionate community for mothers everywhere.

Send us a textWhat if your past could silently shape your present, dictating your reactions and feelings? Join us as we welcome Jane McCampbell-Stewart, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in trauma and PTSD, to unravel this mystery. Jane shares her personal journey with PTSD and her exploration of trauma, which has colored her professional career. Karen, co-host of the Say it Sister podcast, also courageously shares her own experiences with PTSD following a series of traumatic events in 2018. Together, they discuss the significance of recognizing intergenerational, prenatal, and relational trauma and how these invisible wounds influence personal development.Our conversation shines a light on the often unnoticed signals that guide individuals toward seeking trauma therapy. Jane discusses the "rule of two" and how past experiences can be triggered by current challenges, affecting men and women in distinct ways. We explore how societal norms can shape the healing process differently for both genders, with women often leaning toward communal support while men may grapple with emotional access. Through the metaphor of an elastic band, we illustrate how PTSD can cause a reversion to past behaviors, making it vital to understand these patterns for effective healing.Discover practical strategies for managing emotional triggers and reclaiming your sense of self with techniques like the "climber's thump" and "butterfly hug." Jane and Karen emphasize the power of self-awareness and healing, encouraging a hopeful journey toward personal liberation. We delve into the importance of having a supportive network and avoiding self-blame while navigating confusing interactions. With heartfelt stories and actionable insights, this episode serves as an empowering guide for those seeking to find their voice and embark on their healing journey.

Send us a textEver found yourself holding back on what you truly need? Many of us have faced that hurdle, especially in a world that often silences women’s voices. We kick things off with personal stories of overcoming the fear of voicing our desires and the beauty of co-creating solutions through open dialogue. By confronting the societal norms that keep us from expressing our needs, we uncover how self-reflection and prioritizing our desires can lead to fulfilling our dreams, no matter the size.But what about those pesky negative beliefs that tell us we can't have what we want? We dig into the power of inner dialogue and the transformational support of coaches and therapists. It's all about shedding those deeply ingrained tendencies to say yes when we really mean no. By tuning into our authentic selves, we uncover the magic of making choices that truly serve our well-being and align with our deepest desires. We explore how understanding our genuine needs allows us to make more intentional and satisfying decisions.Communication is another key theme, where we reveal the art of asking for what truly matters. Dive into the tactics of assertiveness in professional settings and the courage it takes to stand up for oneself. From mastering the art of framing requests to the necessity of setting boundaries, we share empowering insights on how to navigate conversations with confidence. By the end, you'll see how embracing assertiveness and clarity can transform interactions, leading to more meaningful and rewarding exchanges in both personal and professional realms.

Send us a textHave you ever felt like your desires have taken a backseat to the demands of life? As women, we often find ourselves navigating a complex web of societal expectations and biological inclinations, which can lead us to prioritize others' needs over our own. On this episode, we share Karen's heartfelt journey of losing touch with her personal desires amid the responsibilities of motherhood, alongside Lucy's reflections on her evolving aspirations as her children grow more independent. Together, we take a closer look at how personal desires related to freedom, sexuality, money, and power transform throughout different stages of life, underscoring the crucial role of self-awareness and inner strength.Rediscovering and healing our relationship with sexual power and identity is no easy feat. Our conversation takes a deep dive into the profound impact trauma, motherhood, and life changes have on our sexual desires. We highlight the struggle of balancing societal expectations with personal self-expression and the importance of maintaining intuition and safety by not shutting down parts of our bodies. Discover how embracing sexual energy can catalyze creativity and abundance in other areas of life, and how self-exploration and understanding one's sexual power are invaluable tools on this intricate journey.We also unravel the intricate dynamics between intimacy, power, and money in relationships. Financial issues often mask deeper concerns about respect, roles, and appreciation, and we uncover the ways money serves as a currency of power rather than the root problem itself. Through insightful discussions about communication and clarity in partnerships, we emphasize the importance of articulating desires and needs to foster understanding and mutual growth. Join us as we explore how past experiences shape our ability to ask for what we need and how overcoming these barriers can lead to fulfilling and balanced relationships.

Send us a textWhat happens when we shift from a life of survival to a life of thriving? Join us, Lucy and Karen, as we share our deeply personal journeys, examining the delicate dance between asking for help and truly receiving it. Karen opens up about the transformative effects of requesting support in her family, leading to a more joyful and balanced home life. Meanwhile, Lucy reflects on her corporate career, where asking for help was easy, but accepting it was a different story. Together, we explore how embracing both sides of this equation can prevent loneliness and burnout, fostering gratitude and deeper connections.Step into a world where teamwork and personal growth are no longer at odds. We invite you to explore the evolution from a "can do" mindset to a "can be" approach, where shared responsibility and interdependence create stronger communities. Discover the rituals and practices that can guide you toward personal empowerment, allowing you to express your needs while considering others. As we move from merely surviving to truly thriving, learn how assertiveness can unlock new levels of personal development, helping you align with your highest potential and live a life filled with resilience and fulfillment.

Send us a textLucy found herself grappling with stress, often hesitating to ask for help until it felt too late. Karen, meanwhile, faced a life-altering accident that left her vulnerable and in need of support. Their stories bring to light the complexities and emotional hurdles surrounding the issue of asking for assistance. Listen as we break down the taboos and societal expectations that discourage us from seeking help, especially for women who are pressured to manage it all. Discover how embracing vulnerability can lead to healing and growth, and the profound realization that we are worthy of the love and support we seek.Inspired by the natural world, we explore the beauty of shared support, using the imagery of wild geese to illustrate how nature thrives on collaboration and mutual aid. The discussion challenges societal norms that compel individuals to carry burdens that aren't theirs and encourages shedding those inherited responsibilities for true liberation. By recognizing that others are often willing to help, we can unlock a sense of freedom and empowerment previously hindered by self-imposed barriers. Our conversation intertwines personal anecdotes with broader reflections on how collaboration and asking for support can lead to meaningful change.Reconnecting through vulnerability and collaboration, we share how our renewed partnership has fueled a creative podcast venture. By combining strengths and supporting one another, we've experienced the transformative power of teamwork, open communication, and the courage to reach out. This episode advocates for redefining leadership by embracing authenticity and emotional expression, creating an inclusive space where both women and men can feel empowered to access and share their emotions. As we close, we invite you to join us in embracing your authentic self and preparing for next week's practical insights on effectively asking for help.

Send us a textHave you ever wondered how the term "witch" became synonymous with evil and how it's tied to the silencing of women's voices over the centuries? Join us for a spellbinding conversation with our guest Karen as we uncover the captivating history and cultural impact of the "witch wound." With personal stories that touch on heart energy and the mystical sensitivities of Karen's daughter, Catalina, we spotlight the dual nature of witches—challenging negative stereotypes and celebrating the healing, nature-connected aspects of this misunderstood archetype. Explore the evolution of words and thoughts that have historically demonized women, like the transformation of "gossip" from a supportive term to a tool of vilification. Discover how modern women are reclaiming power through platforms like TikTok and Instagram, and using spirituality as a cornerstone for empowerment. Together, we discuss the significance of spiritual practices that align with personal beliefs, offering pathways for women to live their most authentic lives by clearing negative energies and harnessing personal power.Take a journey back to ancient wisdom as we reconnect with herbal remedies and the natural world. Inspired by a "lost book of herbal remedies," we discuss the powerful healing properties of plants and their role in nutrition and well-being. With insights from authors like Sharon Blackie, we encourage embracing the beauty and mystery of the autumn season with intentionality. As we approach the mystical time of Samhain, discover how rituals and simple acts like lighting a candle can ground and empower you, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world and the generations of women who came before us.

Send us a textNavigating the uncharted waters of perimenopause and menopause can be both bewildering and empowering. Join us as we share our personal journeys through these transformative stages of life, discussing the initial confusion when symptoms first appeared in our early 40s and how understanding our bodies became paramount. By drawing parallels with our mothers' experiences, we highlight the genetic links and the crucial need for open conversation in fostering a supportive space for women during Menopause Awareness Month. Our stories aim to encourage you to listen to your body and embrace self-care as you traverse this often-overlooked transition.As we venture into the maze of menopause, we shine a light on the less-discussed symptoms beyond hot flushes, from the fog of confusion to the throes of social anxiety. These symptoms often prompt a deeper interrogation of identity and purpose. We confront societal misconceptions about aging, particularly within the professional sphere, and call upon women to seek wisdom and support from those who have already walked this path. It's about fostering empowerment and flexibility, transforming menopause into a chapter not of loss, but of liberation and self-discovery.Celebrate the wisdom of age and challenge the societal pressures to cling to youthfulness. By exploring archetypes like the maiden, mother, and crone, we find strength in their timeless wisdom and the playful spirit they inspire. We discuss the profound strength found in women's support networks and the simple joy of asking for help when needed, emphasizing that no one should journey through menopause alone. With stories of sisterhood and shared experiences, we underscore the immense power of connection, honoring the wisdom and strength gained through embracing every chapter of life's journey.

Send us a textCasual sexism lurks in everyday life, from the clothes we wear to the space we claim in public. Lucy and Karen come together on Say it Sister to tackle these pervasive issues head-on. Lucy shares the journey of raising daughters who are beginning to recognize the subtle and not-so-subtle ways sexism creeps into their world. Karen reflects on her own past experiences, revealing the emotional scars that linger. Our conversation uncovers not just the absurdity of tiny pockets in women’s jeans, but the normalization of dismissive attitudes toward harassment and the importance of teaching the next generation to recognize and combat sexism.Challenging sexism requires more than just awareness; it demands action and empowerment. We discuss the crucial need for women to reclaim their power by confronting inappropriate comments and behaviors, especially when those behaviors come from positions of authority. This isn't just about women; it's about educating everyone on personal boundaries and respect, a priority that has become even more vital in a post-COVID world where personal space is cherished. By sharing our stories, we aim to inspire you to recognize these issues and challenge them, setting the stage for more in-depth conversations on societal clichés and gender norms.Navigating societal judgment, particularly around body image and clothing, poses another challenge. The tension between self-expression and safety is an ongoing struggle for women and girls alike. Through personal anecdotes, we explore how women assert control over their personal space, from choosing outfits that empower rather than invite judgment to dealing with uncomfortable situations on public transport. This episode is a celebration of using one’s voice—whether through speaking out or creative expression. As we wrap up, we invite our community to continue this dialogue and embrace their unique voices, reminding everyone that your voice truly matters.