Therapy Works

Latest Episodes:

Gulsom Gohar on survival, hope and crossing borders Nov 22, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to a truly unique episode that transcends the boundaries of a traditional therapy session, offering a gripping narrative more akin to a drama. Join us for a revealing and compelling conversation with Gulsom, a story that is sure to stir your emotions.

In this episode, Gulsom shares poignant aspects of her life:

Independence Against Odds: Gulsom's remarkable journey from a poor, uneducated farming family to becoming a qualified solicitor in Afghanistan.
Traumatic Escape: An intense account of how her life changed during the shocking Taliban military offensive in Afghanistan, leading to a terrifying escape to London.
Navigating Trauma and Grief: Gulsom delves into the depths of the trauma she experienced and the profound grief of leaving everything behind.
Resilience and Hope: Discover what fuels Gulsom's resilience and the audacity to hope as she fights for a new future.

As you listen, you'll find yourself reflecting on the privileges often taken for granted in our lives. This episode serves as a powerful reminder that it's not the events that define us, but our responses to them that truly shape our lives.

We've all experienced those transformative moments that divide our lives into a distinct "before" and "after." This episode magnifies such a moment, emphasising how life can undergo seismic shifts in an instant. It's crucial to recognise that while these moments can be swift, the journey to rebuild and reshape our lives afterward can span a lifetime.

Additional Links:

Breaking Barriers charity: https://breaking-barriers.co.uk/

Find Julia:

Website: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/

Instagram: @juliasamuelmbe

Produced by Rutherford Productions

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Izzy Judd on music, motherhood, and finding light Nov 15, 2023

Show notes

In this heartfelt episode, I have the pleasure of speaking to Izzy Judd, a violinist, and author, but above all, a devoted mother to three children. Through Izzy's gentle honesty, she provides a relatable narrative for parents facing their unique challenges, offering a blend of insight and self-compassion.

Key Discussion Points:

Infertility and Miscarriage: Izzy delves into the complexities of infertility and miscarriage, addressing the physical and psychological aspects, as well as the challenges they pose for couples. These experiences often strain relationships and create unique dynamics, particularly when contrasted with those who appear to effortlessly build their families.

Emotional Load: We explore the emotional weight carried in the realms of life, love, and parenting, which inevitably intersects with one's personal history. Izzy shares her insights into managing these intersecting emotional facets.

Anxiety and Control: The conversation touches upon the relationship between busyness and anxiety, highlighting how periods of quiet can send anxiety soaring.

Befriending Anxiety: Izzy opens up about anxiety as an unwelcome companion that can be understood and even befriended. She shares her experiences and strategies for navigating anxiety in daily life.

Important Conversations: Izzy emphasizes the significance of engaging in important conversations with strangers, in-laws, family, and friends. These conversations have the potential to shed light, offer insights, and provide strength in the face of life's challenges.

This episode showcases the power of vulnerability, resilience, and the capacity for growth and understanding. Izzy Judd's journey is both informative and deeply moving.

Bamford are inviting listeners of the podcast an exclusive 15% off all spa bookings until the end of December. To book your treatment at their wellness spas in London or the Cotswolds phone quoting ‘THERAPY WORKS’ to receive your exclusive discount or online at bamford.com. The code THERAPYWORKS is valid on all spa bookings.

Find Izzy:

Instagram: @mrs_izzyjudd

Book: https://amzn.eu/d/bc50wDn

Album: https://open.spotify.com/album/4vlx1K1fbzPd3jsFtqGq8M?si=B0QVl8ENT5-Q6x5Zf8X_9g

Find Julia:

Website: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/

Instagram: @juliasamuelmbe

Produced by Rutherford Productions

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kit Vincent on finding courage and humour in the face of adversity Nov 08, 2023

Show notes

In this extraordinary episode, we welcome Kit Vincent, an award-winning filmmaker who faced a profound and life-altering diagnosis at the age of 24 when he was told he had a brain tumour with a life expectancy of 4-8 years. Despite the gravity of Kit's situation, this conversation is anything but bleak—it's a testament to the power of humour, courage, and warmth.

Kit's story is an inspiring lesson on how to live life to the fullest, even in the face of adversity.

We explore:

Rearranging One's Identity: Kit discusses how the diagnosis has fundamentally changed who he is, leading to an internal "rearrangement." He shares the challenge of "grieving oneself" and the complexities of fitting one's life into the lives of others.

Prioritizing What Matters: A time-limited future sharpens one's focus on what truly matters, both in significant life decisions and in the everyday. We delve into the impact on priorities and the absence of easy answers.

Family and Relationships: The ripple effects of a terminal diagnosis are felt by everyone in the family, including Kit's girlfriend, Isabel. We explore the testing, the difficulty, and the way it has also forged stronger bonds.

Silent Internal Conversations: Kit shares the internal turmoil of a 24/7 silent conversation that can alienate someone from the rest of the world when facing a terminal diagnosis.

Therapy and Healing: An insightful discussion about therapy, its cost, utility, and what does or doesn't work in the face of such profound challenges.

The Power of Humour: We uncover the joy of humour as a survival mechanism in the darkest of times, revealing the incredible resilience of the human spirit.

This episode is a testament to the indomitable human will to find humour, courage, and warmth even in the most challenging circumstances. Kit Vincent's story is an inspiration to us all.

Additional Links:

Research on Broken Heart Syndrome: Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (broken-heart syndrome) - Harvard Health

Find out more about Kit's documentary here: https://www.kitvincentfilm.com/work/people-plr64

Find Julia:

Website: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/

Instagram: @juliasamuelmbe

Produced by Rutherford Productions

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rio Ferdinand on love, loss, and laughter Nov 01, 2023

Show notes

In this remarkable episode, we are joined by Rio Ferdinand, celebrated as one of the greatest football players of his generation, with 81 caps for England. While Rio's sporting prowess is well-known, it's his candid and heartfelt conversation with me that truly sets him apart.

If you weren't already a fan of Rio, you will undoubtedly become one after listening to this episode. Rio's remarkable honesty and infectious humour shine through, even as he delves into the profound tragedies he and his family have faced.

Key Discussion Points:

Navigating Loss and Love: Rio and his family's journey toward rediscovering life and love following the tragic deaths of his first wife, Rebecca, and his beloved mother.

Bereaved Siblings: The discussion explores the unique experiences and responses of bereaved siblings, highlighting the diversity of emotional reactions within a family.

Preserving Memories: The importance of keeping the memories of loved ones alive, embedding them within the family's narrative, and continuing to connect with those who have passed.

Kate's Role: The significant role played by Kate, Rio's current partner, in fostering connections between herself, Rio's children, and their late mother, Rebecca.

The Blended Family: An exploration of the remarkable love and bond within Rio's blended family, where biological and non-biological children are equally cherished.

Permission to Be Happy: The family's acknowledgment and acceptance of the right to happiness and joy, even in the face of tragedy.

The Power of Evolution: The commitment to evolving and growing as a family, embracing change, and finding strength through unity.

Connection Through Humour: The remarkable release and connection that humour brings to the family, even in challenging times.

This episode is a testament to the enduring power of love, resilience, and the human spirit's capacity for healing. Rio Ferdinand's story is an inspiration to all.

Find Rio:

Instagram: @rioferdy5

Listen to The Blended podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/blended/id1613575251

Find Julia:

Website: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/

Instagram: @juliasamuelmbe

Produced by Rutherford Productions

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maria Indermühle on her MS diagnosis and the healing power within Oct 25, 2023

Show notes

In this deeply insightful episode, we are privileged to hear Maria's remarkable journey of facing the challenge of being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Her emotional intelligence and profound insights provide valuable takeaways for all who listen.

Key Discussion Points:

Breaking Bad News: Maria reflects on the critical role of professionals in breaking bad news, and the significant impact their prognosis can have on how individuals manage life-changing information.

The Impact of Attitude and Development: We delve into the profound relationship between one's attitude and developmental history and how these factors shape the "story of our life" and, consequently, our health.

The Three P's and Their Antidotes: Maria discusses the negative impact of the "three P's" - people pleasing, perfectionism, and past pain - and introduces their antidotes: curiosity and self-compassion, essential elements in the journey to healing.

The Mind-Body Connection: Exploring the intricate connection between the mind and body, Maria highlights the powerful notion that "what the mind says, the body hears." Understanding this connection has the potential to transform both health span and lifespan.

Building Resilience: Maria shares insights on how to seek and implement strategies that nurture resilience in the mind and body. She emphasizes the importance of "removing what you have too much of and giving your body what you don't have enough of."

The Power of Love: At her lowest point, Maria discovered the extraordinary healing power of love. She recounts how, when she wanted to give up, she "couldn't feel his touch but could feel his love," and how it brought about a profound physical and emotional transformation, ultimately saving her life.

This episode is a compelling exploration of the human spirit's capacity for resilience and healing. Maria's story is a testament to the extraordinary impact of love and the potential to transcend even the most challenging circumstances.

Find Julia:

Website: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/

Instagram: @juliasamuelmbe

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brendan Cox on embracing tragedy, community, and compassion Oct 18, 2023

Show notes

In this heartfelt conversation, Julia is joined by Brendan Cox, a passionate campaigner and activist dedicated to counter-terrorism and community cohesion. Brendan is also the father of two bereaved children, a role he assumed tragically after the murder of his wife, MP Jo Cox, in 2016.

From listening to this conversation, you'll quickly discover Brendan's emotional thoughtfulness and intelligence as he shares his journey, providing insights on several crucial aspects of life:

KEY DISCUSSION POINTS:

The Unfixable Tragedy: Brendan opens up about the profound impact of Jo's death and how he grappled with the painful realization that this tragedy was unfixable. It forced him to confront the limits of his power and ultimately surrender to them.

A Clear Purpose: Amid the complexity and trauma, the need to focus on his children gave Brendan a clear sense of purpose and meaning in his life. This newfound clarity motivated him to strive to be "a better dad every day."

Embracing the Unvarnished Truth: Brendan learned that, for himself and his children, honesty, no matter how difficult, was far better than a lie or false protection. This unwavering trust they built in one another prevented them from being manipulated by external forces providing conflicting information.

Living Life to the Fullest: Brendan shares his philosophy of living life to the full, a commitment to "burning the candle at both ends and sort of throwing ourselves into adventures." This approach infused him with the energy to not only persevere but to find joy, adventure, and inspiration in his role as a parent.

The Power of Community: The Cox family found solace and strength in their community. Being known by neighbors, feeling safe, and fostering connections played a vital role in their healing and growth. Brendan also reflects on the evidence of how a community can act as a safeguard against mental illness, violence, and extremism.

A Call to Connect: As you listen to this conversation, you may find ideas to strengthen your connection to your community and the thought-provoking question: "Out of 10, how connected do I feel?"

In the face of adversity and loss, Brendan Cox's story is a testament to the power of embracing tragedy, finding support in community, and nurturing compassion.

Support Links:

For further exploration, Julia recommends Julian Abel's book, "The Compassion Project" and encourages you to explore the concept of compassionate communities.

Compassionate Communities: https://compassionate-communitiesuk.co.uk/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Azariah Hope on how our past shapes our present Oct 11, 2023

Show notes

In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the profound impact of our environment and our familial history on our lives. Join us for an enlightening conversation with Azariah Hope, a remarkable individual whose journey of self-discovery and transformation unveils the power of love, belief, and resilience.

KEY DISCUSSION POINTS:

Azariah's Personal Journey

Azariah opens up about her role as a parent to four children, highlighting the unique connection between her experience and the histories of her mother and grandparents.
Her story unfolds as a testament to how our personal narratives are deeply intertwined with the generations that precede us.

The Influence of 'Normal'

We explore the concept that our perception of "normal" profoundly shapes our decisions and behaviors.
Azariah eloquently explains how we cannot break free from patterns we aren't even aware of until we're given the opportunity to see life from a different perspective.

Healing and Transformation

Azariah shares her personal struggle to heal and grow while facing the demands of a systemic world. She candidly discusses how her journey inward was a necessary step before she could begin building a meaningful relationship with her own children, two of whom were adopted.
Her story serves as a powerful reminder that the pace of personal growth cannot always align with societal expectations.

The Power of Support

Amidst the challenges, Azariah found hope and transformation through the support of others. She reflects on the pivotal role played by one social worker who believed in her, understood her, and fought for her.
Ultimately, it was the love and commitment of her foster family that saved and transformed her life.

Azariah leaves us with a profound message of inspiration. Her story reminds us that, no matter how bleak or traumatic our beginnings may be, transformation and growth are always possible. Through her remarkable journey, she encourages us to believe in our own potential for change and to recognise the significance of love and connection in our lives.

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/therapyworks and get on your way to being your best self.

Find Julia:

Website: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/

Instagram: @juliasamuelmbe

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lemn Sissay on foster care and finding forgiveness Oct 04, 2023

Show notes

In this profoundly moving episode, we have the honor of conversing with Lemn Sissay OBE FRSL, a distinguished British author and broadcaster. Lemn's remarkable journey takes us from his role as the official poet of the 2012 London Olympics to his tenure as the Chancellor of the University of Manchester from 2015 to 2022. However, beyond these accolades, lies a life story that is both heart-wrenching and awe-inspiring.

Key Discussion Points:

The Emotional Hiroshima: Lemn describes the profound impact of his childhood experiences, particularly the 'emotional Hiroshima' he endured as a 12-year-old child placed into care.

Resilience Through Words: Discover how Lemn found solace and resilience through poetry, one word at a time, allowing him to claim his presence in the world with the declaration, "I am here now."

Recognizing Value: Lemn challenges our perception of what we value, highlighting how we often fail to recognize the true importance of our possessions until they are taken from us.

The Power of Touch: Explore the significance of physical touch and the contrasting experiences of Lemn's lack of contact during his formative years and his grandmother's lifetime of tactile connections, which left her alone in her later years.

Forgiveness Liberates: Lemn delves into the transformative power of forgiveness, emphasizing that true forgiveness goes beyond shallow words; it liberates the spirit.

Embracing Accountability: The importance of accountability in the healing and growth process is discussed, shedding light on the path toward personal and collective transformation.

Lemn leaves us with a thought-provoking question: Can we find inner peace and then work to change the world?

This expansive and profound conversation is an emotional rollercoaster, evoking tears, anger, outrage, laughter, and ultimately, a deep sense of love. Prepare to be moved and inspired by Lemn Sissay's incredible journey. Don't miss this episode.

Important Links:

Article that Emily referenced: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/sep/21/care-experienced-children-eight-times-more-likely-enter-youth-justice-system-england

The Forgiveness Project: https://www.theforgivenessproject.com

Fostering Support Links:

The Fostering Network: https://www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk/

Barnardos: https://www.barnardos.org.uk/foster

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amanda Prowse on breaking free from criticism and class constraints Sep 27, 2023

Show notes

On today’s episode, Julia is joined by accomplished author Amanda Prowse. Her success story is as inspiring as it is relatable. Despite her tremendous achievements, Amanda has suffered from imposter syndrome, and today, she opens up about its roots, including the impact of class. She discusses how she defied low expectations. and her searing experiences as a mother to her mentally ill son.

Key Discussion Points:

Overcoming Expectations:

Amanda shares her personal experiences of navigating criticism and low expectation and the role books played in boosting her confidence and igniting her imagination.
Recognising individual talents as a pathway to resilience in challenging times.

A Mother’s Heartache:

Amanda’s emotional journey as a mother, addressing her son Josh’s battle with depression and suicidal thoughts.
Insights into the enduring impact of mental illness on families.
Coping strategies and ongoing lessons Amanda and her family are learning while navigating her son’s depression.

Shifting Perspectives on Therapy:

Amanda’s evolving relationship with the concept of therapy.
The transformative power of seeking professional help in dealing with mental health challenges.

Find Amanda:

Website: https://www.amandaprowse.com/

Books: http://www.amandaprowse.com/books/

Instagram: @mrsamandaprowse

Support links:

MIND: www.mind.org.uk

YOUNG MINDS: www.youngminds.org.uk/

SHOUT: https://giveusashout.org/

BACP: www.bacp.co.uk

Find Julia:

Website: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/

Books: https://juliasamuel.co.uk/books/everyfamilyhasastory

Instagram: @juliasamuelmbe

Bamford are offering 15% off all bookings until the end of the year. Book your treatment online at bamford.com and use the code 'THERAPY WORKS’ to access your exclusive discount. If you would like to know more about membership of The Club by Bamford, a new luxury private members club in the Cotswolds that provides a 360º wellness experience incorporating health, fitness, and holistic well-being, please visit bamfordclub.com or email applications@bamfordclub.com

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/therapyworks and get on your way to being your best self.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trinny Woodall on fear, friendship and facing the past Sep 20, 2023

Show notes

Julia sits down with long-time friend and remarkable beauty entrepreneur Trinny Woodall, and embarks on a deeply personal and enlightening conversation.

They delve into Trinny's journey, unveiling the strong woman beneath her beautiful presentation, a woman who has surmounted numerous hurdles - the greatest of which being fear.

While few of us may have Trinny's fantastic style, her internal struggles and the way she's navigated a myriad of complex losses are profoundly relatable. Together, Julia and Trinny explore a range of topics and provide us with valuable insights, heartfelt anecdotes, and moments of wisdom, laughter, and even tears.

Key Discussion Points:

Fear – the fear of fear: Trinny candidly opens up about her experiences with fear, revealing how she confronted this paralyzing emotion head-on and emerged stronger.
Being a woman in a man’s world: Trinny shares her perspectives on what it means to navigate a world where women are often faced with unique challenges, offering empowering insights and experiences.
Our relationship to our home- the roof over our head: The conversation turns to the significance of our homes, exploring the emotional and psychological connections we have with the places we live.
Women's relationship to money and how our ignorance is profoundly disempowering.
The importance of family and chosen family: Trinny and Julia discuss the concept of family and how it can extend far beyond blood ties, highlighting the profound impact of chosen family members in our lives.
Reshaping the painful past for a brighter future: Trinny's journey of taking the positive aspects from her painful past and transforming them into a driving force for her present and future is explored, offering listeners inspiration for their own lives.
The importance of friendship: Trinny and Julia emphasize the vital role of friendship in all of our lives.

Listening to this episode is not only an opportunity to gain unique insights into Trinny Woodall's life but also a chance to be uplifted and inspired by her journey of overcoming fear, embracing the past, and cherishing the importance of friendship.

Buy Trinny's new book: https://amzn.eu/d/5SBvgbf

Listen to Trinny's podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/fearless/id1700872334

Follow Trinny: @trinnywoodall

Bamford are inviting listeners of the podcast to experience their targeted holistic treatments at their wellness spas in London or the Cotswolds and are offering 15% off all bookings until the end of the year. Book your treatment online at bamford.com and use the code 'THERAPY WORKS’ to access your exclusive discount. If you would like to know more about membership of The Club by Bamford, a new luxury private members club in the Cotswolds that provides a 360º wellness experience incorporating health, fitness, and holistic well-being, please visit bamfordclub.com or email applications@bamfordclub.com

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/therapyworks and get on your way to being your best self.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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