E171: Finding purpose through pain and lived experience

In this heartfelt episode of The School Run Podcast, Jane is joined by Lynsey Clarke— wife, mum of two, chartered surveyor, and now trainee naturopathic nutritionist, naturopath and homeopath.Lynsey shares how she followed the traditional path from school to university and into a secure professional career, only to realise later in life that security and success do not always equal passion or purpose.This conversation explores grief, motherhood, career change, confidence, and the courage it takes to question the path you thought you were supposed to follow.Lynsey speaks openly about losing her dad to suicide, navigating life on the “hamster wheel”, and how her son Hugo’s health journey led her to explore natural health, nutrition, naturopathy and homeopathy.Together, Jane and Lynsey discuss:* Why school often prepares us to work for someone else, but not necessarily to follow our own path* The pressure children feel to perform academically* Why every child has something amazing to share* The importance of trusting your instincts as a parent* How lived experience can become purpose* Why confidence often comes from pushing outside your comfort zone* The power of questioning systems while still seeking support* How it is never too late to change directionThis episode is honest, emotional and deeply thought-provoking — a reminder that sometimes the hardest chapters of our lives lead us towards the work we are truly meant to do.Please note: Lynsey shares her personal lived experience and views in this episode. This conversation is not intended as medical advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional when making decisions about health, treatment or medication.Podcasts for us are all about learning and sharing, of course free to listen to.We have some small costs to cover so if you would like to buy us a virtual cup of tea /coffee when we are planning them out please click here https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun\Get In Touch: Of course, you can always get in touch with us (publicly or privately) on our socials @‌theschoolrun_official / @‌mrsjanejames on Instagram, or search and follow Jane James on Facebook. We'd love to hear your story - please get in touch with us directly at [email protected]: For information on Jane’s company Little Voices head to http://www.littlevoices.org.uk⁠⁠@littlevoiceslimitedYou will often hear references to The Olive Jar to find out more follow @theolivejarcoursewww.theolivejar.online‌Disclaimer: All views expressed in this podcast are of the participants themselves. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. We are just a mum and daughter, sharing their thoughts and chatting with guests that we really respect and sharing our personal stories and insights. Please seek professional advice if you need it.This episode is edited by Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real