HEARTFELT Conversations with JAX

We all know that children and young adults are carrying very real pressures in their daily lives right now. The quiet pressures of social media, combined with the gap in understanding between generations, are creating a real and urgent crisis for many young people. From mild anxiety to severe mental health struggles that can leave young people feeling overwhelmed and hopeless, these challenges deserve compassion, understanding and action. This is where SADAG, The South African Depression and Anxiety Group, has played such an important role for more than 30 years, offering support, guidance and hope to people facing mental health challenges of all kinds. But this work cannot continue without more financial support, empathy and practical help from all of us. Today I speak to Roshni Parbhoo-Seetha – the Project Manager: Education (SADAG) In this conversation, we explore when and why SADAG began, while also getting to know Roshni and the meaningful work SADAG continues to offer to those who need mental health support. Thanks once again Roshni for this wonderful conversation. I am hoping to reconnect with Roshni soon to learn more about SADAG’s plans for the annual 16 Days of Activism at the end of November, and how we can help address the growing global issue of gender-based violence. My heartfelt thanks to Roshni for sharing her voice and to all of you for listening to Conversations with Jax. Please remember to like and subscribe. You can also watch all recorded audio episodes on YouTube using my handle, @HeartFELTwithJAX.  

BARRY HILTON

Episode 2 of this very heart warming story of the last few months in the life of Mamma G (Carol Gay Douglas-Jones) - who left this world on 12 August 2024 - offers such an incredibly inspirational guide to all who are, still might or even those who have already been through the devastating experience of watching a loved one deteriorate in front of your eyes. Dementia and similar neurologically debilitating progressive diseases...such as Parkinsons / Huntingtons / Creutzfeldt-Jakob diseases as well as Alzheimer's are potentially soul crushing to all who are part of the effected person. We get more of how Karen Justine and her sister (Lee-anne) fought for their mother to feel loved and extremely well cared for as she deteriorated in front of them. Karen makes it clear that the loss of her mother was never going to define her future. Her acceptance of Mammas G fate as the next obstacle and painful obstruction in her journey to finding her ultimate peace is simply an incredibly mentally liberating narrative. Karen Justine and Lee-Anne (Flea) - thank you for opening up and sharing your story... As always, my heartfelt thanks Jax THEN... Please don't forget to help us reach those who need to hear these stories but subscribing, likes and commenting on each episode. We are not only on YouTube but on all podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts as well.

Welcome to the final episode of the The Mervyn Keith Isaac GRIEF story. EP 3 : OUR NEXT CHAPTER BEGINS Mervyn Isaac was diagnosed with heart failure in late August 2016 - the prognosis being very dire with the news that his heart was only functioning at 5% of a healthy heart. On 25 August, 2 months after this recording, Anne will be commemorating 24 months since his passing... In this episode Anne takes us further as she explains how the grief is managed by her and Zander. She explains, compliments and thanks all the wonderful support groups she has joined as well as one she is facilitating at the moment. Anne also gives us an idea of how she plans on keeping his memory alive. Annes story is very personal for Ant and I as we feel truly privileged to have had an opportunity to get to know Mervyn - a wonderful friend. Please share these episodes as they are extremely helpful to all those who have been through similar losses. As I have mentioned so many times, Anne herself is an incredible human being who has many gifts - from this series you will be able to acknowledge and understand her gift of communication. Thanks so much Anne. I love and respect you... I WILL be bringing you back for a chat in the future. THEN... Please don't forget to help us reach those who need to hear these stories but subscribing, likes and commenting on each episode. We are not only on YouTube but on all podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts as well. As always, my heartfelt thanks to you for listening JAX

We continue our series on the many deep emotional and potentially harming effects of grief. The Mervyn Keith Isaac GRIEF series begins with the emotional rollercoaster ride that is PRE-EMPTIVE or ANTICIPATED GRIEF * Learning to LOVE and HATE the traumatic experience of caring for and/or watching someone close to you slowly deteriorate and eventually succumb to their mortality. EP 2 : MY DELIRIOUS GRIEF In the first episode, we got to know and understand who Anne was and how their family of 3 managed as best they could to live and continue to love while Mervyn continued to battle through his Mervyn was diagnosed with heart failure in late August 2016 - the prognosis being very dire with the news that his heart was only functioning at 5% of a healthy heart This episode begins that extremely painful realisation for Anne and Zander that their lives has changed forever with his passing. Mental struggles, family squabbles and the realisation that the person she was before the death is very much evolved into someone different. Mervyn and Annes only daughter, Zander is commended regularly by her mom for helping her get through her own trauma and as a result, the bond between mother and child strengthens. Please be on the lookout for episode three which will follow shortly.... THEN... Please don't forget to help us reach those who need to hear these stories but subscribing, likes and commenting on each episode. We are not only on YouTube but on all podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts as well. As always, my heartfelt thanks to you for listening JAX

We begin our series on the many deep emotional and potentially harming effects of the MANY kinds of grief. We start the Mervyn Isaac GRIEF series with the most obvious form of grief * THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE. EP 1 : WHAT, HOW, WHY ? I am very honoured to be allowed into the mind of Anne Isaac as she shares her trauma with the loss of her 'person' - husband of 28 years and father to their dynamic only child, Zander (24 at time of recording in June 2026) This is a very deep story of friendship, love, living with the inevitability of mortality - but the earlier than expected inevitability does not make it any easier. Part 1 of the 3 episodes has Anne taking us back to the beginning of this special relationship with an truly loving and family focussed man. She takes us through the tough times from Mervyns diagnosis in 2016 till the fateful day the surgeon has to provide the devastating news to Anne and Zander. This episode sets us up for the next two dynamic and inspiring episodes that follow. Please don't forget to help us reach those who need to hear these stories by subscribing - offer likes and commenting on each episode. We are also on YouTube and all podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple As always, my heartfelt thanks to you for listening JAX XX

As we continue our MERVYN ISAAC GRIEF SERIES we take a look at the 'disease' that is DEMENTIA. Dementia is an umbrella term for a collection of symptoms—such as memory loss, declining cognitive skills, and behavioural changes...(source : google ) It isn't a mental health disease or illness, but in its wake there are many who struggle with the mental challenges associated with the disease - for friends, family, carers AND the one who actually suffers form this debilitating intrusion in their lives. THE FULL TWO PART EPISODE VIDEO IS AVAILABLE ON YOU TUBE - @HeartFeltWithJAX Here I chat to a person I have loved and respected for all of the 44 years I have known her. As her sister, Lee-Anne, and I developed a close bond as young kids navigating life, their mother, Gay - known us us all as Mamma G - was one of those people that you could not fall in love with. Such a caring individual whose only flaw was her incredible ability to trust every soul she met - totally not believing that a number of them had darker - completely opaque true natures. She suffered much pain for her gift of loving.... In this first episode, Karen leads us from the moment of realising that her mother was in a situation of concern during lockdown 2020 till the last few months of her life as she was sat in a special Dementia home deteriorating daily... We learn much about what carers of their loved ones go through as well as what the actually stages of dementia sufferers go through physically, emotionally and mentally. We learn about Dementia eyes and what they mean. Not only is this subject common to many people, Anthony and I lived through the demise of a truly exceptional human being. Not only was she Ants aunt...she was also another mother and friend of mine for so many years... I hope you get a lot of valuable information that is available in this episode...and dont forget to watch episode two. Karen Justine and Lee-Anne (Flea) - thank you for opening up and sharing your story... As always, my heartfelt thanks JAX THEN... Please don't forget to help us reach those who need to hear these stories but subscribing, likes and commenting on each episode. We are not only on YouTube but on all podcast platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts as well.

What an honour I had by being able to interview Paddy Upton. Much like Kyle Hermans, he travels the world extensively as the need for his expertise is in such huge global demand. Best known as one of the world’s leading physical and mental conditioning coaches, Paddy has worked with some of the world’s top athletes, including the Indian cricket team that won the 2011 World Cup. With four degrees and two masters in mental coaching, Paddy is now on a mission to help parents better understand and connect with their children. Over the past 15 years, he has tirelessly researched what he believes is a major gap in how parents’ guide children through their primary and secondary school years. Working together with kids, parents and their academic teachers and sports coaches, Paddy simply wants kids to thrive and be loved for their own unique talents. Paddy Upton has authored a comprehensive and easy to read book about the first 25 years of his professional life called THE BAREFOOT COACH. And – yes - An eventful and meaningful life it has been. In this open and honest conversation, Paddy shares the five critical mistakes he believes many parents are making. If you have children under the age of 18, this is an episode well worth listening to.   Contact Paddy at www.paddyupton.com 

Having experienced the horrors of anxiety, both mild all the way to what we term panic attacks, I just try to unpack what is understood by society and what we could do with it...or do about it. All my kids still suffer through it fairly regularly and they all encounter and manage it in different ways. From anxiety to use the phone all the way to compulsive disorders and substance abuses that evolve through constant bouts of anxiety, we have experienced it all As always, these are my thoughts verbalised, so please consult a professional if you feel that any symptoms are severely effecting your daily life.

BE COURAGEOUS was founded by Kyle and Jenna Hermans in 2017 as a global, digital-first business consultancy Kyle himself is an influential figure in global business, innovation, design thinking, and leadership. I have known Kyle for almost 40 years and I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity he has given us to get to the core of his belief. Kyle has overcome so much in his life and to see him as a global influencer, life coach to top executives and loving husband and father. Kyle, Jenna and their kids live in California, U.S.A, however this interview was recorded while he was attending a corporate conference in NYC. Get hold of Kyle below... https://bcrgs.com/ - IG: @kylehermans - Email address: [email protected] - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehermans/

It is now time to get back to the basics and remind ourselves of the impact that humane and God inspired thoughts and ideas can do for our mental well being. In this episode of Heartfelt, we get to the truth from this renowned author and dermatologist, based in New Yordk. We explore his background and the inspiration behind his book, The King’s Race. While presented as a children’s book, it reveals layered, meaningful as well as critical and often forgotten life lessons that resonate with readers of all ages. We also unpack the hidden messages found in Spot’s adventures. We hope you enjoy the discussion and consider purchasing this short but impactful book, available on Amazon.

Anthony and I have been parents since 2003, and the journey has been far from easy. In this episode, I ask him to reflect on the most valuable mistakes and lessons we’ve learned along the way. Parenting has always been a team effort, and while leading that team has brought its own challenges, I’m deeply aware of how much harder it can be for single mothers without a father figure present for their children.  Our marriage has faced real strain after welcoming our three children, but with strong support we were able to mend those cracks—and ultimately grow closer as we celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary in 2026. The key takeaway is simple: don’t parent the way you were parented. The world has changed, and your children face different challenges than you did. Take the time to truly know and understand each child—they need you, and you need them. Even if “happily ever after” is a myth, aim to be a parent who is also a mentor, guide, and trusted friend to each child.

It is my pleasure to introduce Dana Grant to our podcast. Dana is a best‑selling author, intuitive life strategist, and global thought leader committed to helping individuals unlock their potential and build lives grounded in purpose, abundance, and self‑trust. In this episode, we discuss her book The Truth Within the Lie and the key insights she shares. Her guidance—direct yet practical—offers tools that can shift one’s perspective when applied with intention. A central theme in our conversation is that meaningful change begins with the individual. Across many interviews, this idea consistently emerges: the mind plays a pivotal role in both emotional and physical healing. PURCHASE HER BOOK ONLINE : CLICK HERE TO GO TO AMAZON  HERE IS THE CORE MESSAGE FROM THE EPISODE.
SUCCESS DOES NOT HEAL UNWORTHINESS   KEY TAKEOUTS - From the moment you wake up, claim the day as yours. Convince yourself. - Signs/signals meant for you are always around you. Learn to spot them. “Unworthiness doesn’t disappear when you succeed, it just gets better at hiding.” - DANAs lie was that her medication was saving her until she realised the truth... that her meds were actually killing her both physically and mentally - Your EGO is capable of sabotaging - KNOW what the Terror barrier is (full description of what is is on our website)  - You are responsible for your own healing...no one else... - TRUST THE PROCESS, DIVORCE YOURSELF FROM THE OUTCOME. “Confidence is loud. Self-trust is quiet and that’s why it’s so powerful.” Dana Grant challenges traditional confidence advice and explains why women don’t need to be louder or more certain, but more connected to themselves. This conversation explores how rebuilding self-trust transforms decision-making, leadership, and personal power. Enjoy the conversation.

Lisa Theopolis is not only a dear friend of mine, but to this day - she reminds me that practically every obstacle can be overcome.   This episode sees up focus on the real dangers experienced during what could arguably been remembered as the most exciting time of our lives. Getting married to your own persona knight is wonderful, but bringing a child into this world is often misinterpreted as the most blessed time of your existance. If you have an urge to laugh at my comment above, I can only say that you have been through this. MADNESS...it is a time that nothing really goes according to a script - nothing you read, no movie you watch and no professional advise given can prepare you for this monumental life shift. Relationships take strain, patience wears thin and as a mother (and as a father) you get to see the metamorphosis of a creature within you....someone who can shock and disgust you at the same time. I you have been through this, YOU ARE NOT CLOSE TO BEING ALONE... Lisa had opted, selflessly and very admirably to the seven very difficult years that shaped her, changed her into the most beautiful person she is today.  Post-Natal, or Anti-Natal depression is so very real and no one really wants to speak about their mermories of it. Thanks Lisa...I love, respect and appreciate your honestly. You are my hero.

Episode Five - following the quite unbelievable journey of silent mental obstacles faced - with Michaela, my first born...is incredible raw and very revealing.   While you got a glimpse into the early lives of her twin siblings - born almost three years after her - we get an wonderful insight into the mind of the (sorry, a bit generalised..) first child syndrome and how this shaped her soul. Her outlook on life is incredibly positive and realistic, but as a mother I missed the signs early on of a child who desperately wanted a family life without the rigors that we all face. You will hear how her anxiety and her diagnosed compulsion to narrate the story of her life lead her to a dark and desperate space that she felt completely defeated by. This is the story of a shining light for everyone who is lucky enough to be in her presence. While the episode was recorded in December 2024, the time of this edit, she is about to turn 23 years of age - living in the U.K with her loving boyfriend Jay, and seiving every opportunity with both arms presented.  She qualified in 2025 with a degree in Film and has a passion for documenting life on film like no one else.   I love you Michaela and I know you are going to change so many lives for the good. To our listeners, please subscribe and share your thoughts. Our aim is to create a space where everyone feels welcome and free of judgment. Spoiler alert : points discussed #anxiety #mentalbreakdown  #panicattack #socialanxiety Come heal with us...   LOVE Mom (JAX)

This episode takes a slightly different but (I believe) essential theme. Joining me in this episode is Dr Michael Mol - keynote speaker, health strategist, wellness researcher Michael is unpacking the science behind mental health and ‘happiness as a health habit. He’ll be taking us deep into how you can hack your happiness with science-backed, habit-powered tools to train your brain - and your body - for performance, resilience, and joy. Doc Mol provides a number of mental health gems that will help the listener get proactive in their pursuit for Mental health Wellness in a sustainable manner. I know you will find this and the next episode both informative and (possibly even...) life changing.    For a copy of summarised points that we can provide, please send an email to me  [email protected]   COME HEAL WITH US

After Tayden opened his heart to us in the previous episode—letting us into the private corners of his life, his trauma, and the anxiety he has carried as a transgender male—we turn now to his twin sister. This is an edited conversation I had with her two years ago, in 2024, and her story is one that still shakes me every time I revisit it. Loren… from the moment she could walk, she filled every room with an excitable and contagious energy...light and positive. An extroverted, spirited, unstoppable child. And then high school happened. The emotional bullying she endured carved wounds far deeper than any of us realized. Those wounds led her into heartbreaking circumstances—some from poor decisions she bravely owns today, others from the cruel luck no child should ever face. She survived sexual abuse as a young teen, fought her way through self‑harm, suicidal thoughts, substance use, and terrifying panic attacks.   As parents, we saw her slipping, and we tried so hard to reach her—but so much of the battle was invisible, happening inside her. And in the chaos of everything she couldn’t control, she held on to the one thing she thought she could control : her eating. What started as a coping mechanism became a relentless eating disorder that consumed her strength and our hearts. At this time, she was also diagnosed with BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder) Loren, you are a warrior. You have been to the darkest places and still, somehow, you offer the world the kindest heart imaginable. You will move mountains. You already have. Mom and Dad love you more than words will ever say. To everyone listening: thank you for being here. Please subscribe, share your thoughts, and above all, know that this is a space where you are seen, welcomed, and never judged. To our listeners, please subscribe and share your thoughts. Our aim is to create a space where everyone feels welcome and free of judgment. Spoiler alert : points discussed #eatingdisorders #suicidalideation #substanceabuse #ed Come heal with us...

We’re diving deeper into the mental‑wellness challenges many of us face. In this episode, I talk with my son Tayden. Unlike his twin sister Loren—who you’ll hear from next episode—his anxiety was harder to notice and even harder for him to express - as he’s a naturally reserved person. Spoiler alert: Around 15 minutes into this 2024 recording, he shares a MAJOR PERSONAL SECRET that is the most life-changing event he will (hopefully) ever confront. I admire this child deeply. He inspires me, and I believe he’ll change many lives.  Tayden...you are extraordinary. Your courage, your softness, your honesty—you teach us every day how powerful and uplifting true authenticity can be. As your parents, we love you with everything we have.  To our listeners, please subscribe and share your thoughts. Our aim is to create a space where everyone feels welcome and free of judgment. Trigger warning: points discussed #anxiety #mentalbreakdown #transgenderman #panicattack #socialanxiety Come heal with us...

The first episode of HEARTFELT (previously known as UNFILTERED invites listeners into the heart of Jax’s (Jackie Douglas‑Jones) story.... She understands that true connection—and the power to inspire—begins with honesty. By sharing her journey, her vulnerabilities, her past mistakes, and the lessons that shaped her, she hopes to empower others to embrace their own growth. This episode isn’t just an introduction—it’s an open door, welcoming listeners to know her deeply so her message can make a real impact. For more information about her, please visit UnfilterThatLens.com To our listeners, please subscribe and share your thoughts. Our aim is to create a space where everyone feels welcome and free of judgment. Trigger warning: She discusses #depression #mentalbreakdown #ptsd #ed Come heal with us...