#7 Vicky Osbourn: Stroke Survivor's Story - When Stress Speaks Through the Body

In this powerful episode of I’m Fine – The Truth Behind the Smile, Jayne sits down with Vicky Osbourn, who spent years navigating high-pressure corporate environments while regularly carrying the emotional and physical weight of stress. From adapting to demanding personalities and workplace expectations to the pressure of constantly appearing “fine,” this conversation explores the hidden emotional labour many professionals experience every day.Everything changed after a life-altering health crisis - a stroke initially dismissed as high blood pressure - forcing a complete reassessment of stress, wellbeing, recovery and the culture of silence that still exists in many workplaces.Together, they discuss the emotional impact of supporting others and why saying “I’m fine” is often anything but the truth. They dive deep into the reality of stress, burnout and invisible pressure in corporate life, as well as the journey of recovering both physically and psychologically after a stroke, including the profound impact serious illness has on families. The conversation highlights why workplace wellbeing must go beyond surface-level check-ins, emphasising the crucial importance of communication, boundaries and psychological safety. Finally, they share small, practical wellbeing practices that genuinely help during moments of overwhelm. This is an honest, moving, and deeply relatable conversation about resilience, identity, recovery and learning to listen when the body says enough.Vicky Osbourn - Busy mum of two teenagers and a husband (who wants to be a teenager) that juggles full-time work whilst desperately clinging on the the vestiges of calmness and wholesomeness in an ever-changing world and life.Connect with Vicky on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/vicky-osbourn-60472613  / Facebook - vickyhollyfield_osbourn / Instagram - vickyhollyfield_osbournEF training exists because nobody should have to pour from an empty cup. Founded by Jayne Ellis who learnt the hard way so you don't have too.If today's conversation resonated with you, please subscribe, share and leave a review - it helps more professionals who care find this community.If you or someone you know would like to join the conversation and be a guest on our podcast, please get in touch. Connect with us at [email protected] us at http://eftraining.co.uk for more information about Jayne Ellis and learn about our Compassion Fatigue and Emotional Resilience Training for Organisations and Individuals.Please note: This podcast is intended for education and supportive purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health support. If you are struggling, please reach out to a qualified professional or contact your GP. The views and options expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views, values or position of EF training Ltd. Guest content is shared in the spirit of open conversation, learning and intended as a safe space for honest dialogue.