The Sweet Poison of Praise: Why We Crave It but Don't Believe It

Ever noticed how you can receive ten lovely compliments… and one slightly arched eyebrow… and somehow that's the bit that sticks? In this episode, I'm talking about the sneaky pull of external validation—the kind of feedback we long for but often don't believe when we get it. I share what I've learned (often the hard way) about how needing a certain response from your audience, your peers, or even your loved ones can throw you off balance—and how things change when you start valuing your own opinion just a little bit more. This one's especially personal, as I reflect on grief, vulnerability, and the surprising ways old thought patterns can creep back in when life shakes you. It's not about pretending you don't care—it's about learning how to care differently. And kindly. So if you've ever twisted yourself into knots trying to please everyone, or felt lost when praise didn't land the way it should have, this one's for you. And if you'd like some practical tools to help let go of that need for praise and reconnect with your authentic performer self, join me on 8th May for my workshop: The Joy of Being a Fearless Performer.