So...It's Not Just Me

What would it take for you to walk away from a secure career and follow your passion?This week I'm joined by Joshua, a musician who made the difficult decision to leave his full-time job and pursue music professionally. We talk about taking risks, balancing finances, having a young family, and what happens when your dreams don't fit the traditional path.If you've ever wondered "what if?", this conversation is for you.

What does it really mean to be "strong"?This week, I'm joined by Dom for an honest conversation about men's mental health, breaking down stigma, and why asking for help is one of the bravest things anyone can do.We talk about the pressures many men face, the importance of having a safe space to talk, and Dom's own journey from attending Andy's Man Club when he was struggling with his mental health, to becoming a facilitator and, more recently, opening his own branch to support other men.We also chat about his social media series, Dom Talks, where he shares honest reflections and conversations around mental health, and his regular appearances on Crags Radio, helping to keep these important conversations going.Whether you're struggling yourself, supporting someone you care about, or simply want to understand men's mental health a little better, this episode is for you.If this conversation resonates with you, please like, comment, and subscribe. Your support helps these stories reach the people who may need them most.

In this birthday special, I sit down with Cheri and Stacy to talk about what podcasting has taught me, the guests and episodes that have impacted me the most, and some of the life lessons I’ve picked up along the way.We chat about: ✨ Turning 40 ✨ Mental health and personal growth ✨ Favorite podcast episodes ✨ Stories that changed our perspectives ✨ Friendship, life, and getting older This episode feels like sitting down with friends for a long overdue catch-up… and honestly, that’s exactly what I wanted it to be.  #Podcast #BirthdayEpisode #WomenOver40 #MentalHealthPodcast #LifeLessons #Friendship #ItsNotJustMe 

This episode, I’m joined by Anthony as we talk about the reality of changing careers while raising a young family, chasing a dream job, and carrying the pressure that comes with trying to “hold it all together.”We discuss stress, anxiety, identity, financial pressure, and the moments where life can feel like it’s becoming too much. Anthony opens up about the emotional toll that major life changes can have, how close he came to completely breaking down, and what helped him keep moving forward.This episode is honest, vulnerable, and a reminder that so many people are silently struggling while trying to build a better future for themselves and their families.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by responsibility, scared to take a risk, or like you’re carrying the weight of everything on your shoulders… this episode is for you. 💛#MentalHealth #CareerChange #Anxiety #Stress #Fatherhood #Podcast #MentalHealthPodcast #ItsNotJustMe

I’M BACK 😅What started as a planned 6–8 week break somehow turned into 6 months away from the podcast… so I thought it was time for a proper catch-up. In this solo catch-up episode, I talk about where we’ve been, what life has looked like lately, and why stepping away from the podcast ended up being something I genuinely needed.  If you’ve ever felt burnt out, overwhelmed, creatively drained, or like life pulled you in a different direction for a while… you’re definitely not alone. #Podcast #Burnout #LifeUpdate #SmallBusiness #DisneyAdult #WomenWhoPodcast #CozyPodcast

In this episode, I’m joined by a guest who found her way into the fitness world through her own personal weight loss journey and turned that transformation into a completely new career.We talk honestly about what it was like to start from scratch, the bumps along the way, and the moment she decided to leave a secure job behind to pursue something that felt more aligned. We also explore life as a personal trainer and Les Mills instructor and balancing multiple commitments.We dive into her first HYROX experience, what motivated her to sign up, how she trained around a busy life, and what the challenge represents on a deeper level. We also chat about community days, running workshops, and the importance of creating spaces where people feel supported, welcomed, and not alone.This is a conversation about growth, courage, community, and learning to trust yourself even when the path ahead feels uncertain.

In this week’s episode I sit down with my guest as she shares her journey of being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in her early 30s. She opens up about the moment she realised something wasn’t right, what made her finally seek help, and how she handled the fear and uncertainty that came with getting answers.We talk about what her life looked like before the diagnosis, how things changed afterward, and the lifestyle shifts she’s had to make as she learns to live with MS. She also lets us into the beautiful parts of her story, getting married, planning a honeymoon filled with adventure, and navigating the adjustments she needed to make so she could still enjoy every moment.This conversation is honest and full of strength. If you're living with a chronic illness, supporting someone who is, or just looking for stories of resilience and hope, I hope this episode makes you feel seen and less alone.

This week I’m diving into the world of BookTok with a guest who knows the romance and smut genre inside and out. We talk about how these books have become a source of comfort, connection, and pure joy, especially when life feels overwhelming.We chat about what first pulled us in, how BookTok helped us find our people, and why these stories can feel so healing. We also explore the shame some readers feel around enjoying romance, how these books can boost confidence, and the surprising ways fictional relationships can teach us about our own lives.If you love a cosy read, a little spice, or a story that makes your heart beat a bit faster, this episode is for you.Grab a cup of tea and join us. Whatever your spice level....

In this Thanksgiving episode I’m sitting down with three of my favourite people in the world, my two sisters and our cousin. We grew up more like a little squad than anything else, and spending this time together reminded me just how special that bond still is.We talk about what it was like growing up in such a close family, how our relationships have changed as we’ve gotten older, and what it really feels like now that we all live in different countries. There are definite pros, definite cons, and plenty of laughs in between.We also get into how we stay connected, what we miss the most, the traditions we’ve held onto, and the ones we’ve created along the way.If you’re spending Thanksgiving with loved ones — or if you’re missing someone today — I hope this episode makes you feel a little less alone and a little more understood. Grab a cup of tea, settle in, and join our family chat.

In this week’s episode, I'm joined by Lauren to talk about what it really takes to heal from toxic situations and start again. Lauren opens up about how she turned her pain into purpose, using fitness and mindset work to rebuild her confidence and create a business she’s proud of.Together, we explore the law of attraction, setting boundaries, and learning to trust yourself again after difficult experiences. Lauren also shares how she uses social media to connect with others, promote her work, and spread awareness in an authentic way.This conversation is an honest reminder that healing is not a straight path, and that sometimes the hardest chapters are what lead us to the most fulfilling ones.🎧 Tune in now and join the chat, because it’s never just you going through it.

 This week I’m joined by Helen, who was diagnosed with fibromyalgia after a sudden chest infection changed her life overnight.  We discuss: ✨ What fibromyalgia really feels like 💬 The emotional toll of losing independence 💅 How she found purpose again through creativity and community 💭 Mental health, self-compassion, and finding light in difficult moments If you or someone you love lives with chronic pain, this conversation is for you. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a comment, and share your experiences#SoItsNotJustMe #FibromyalgiaAwareness #ChronicPain #MentalHealthMatters

In this week’s episode, I sit down with a Em, who’s navigating life with two SEN children. We talk about the daily challenges, the battles to get the right support in schools, and the moments that make it all worthwhile. She opens up about what it’s like to constantly advocate for her kids, the emotional toll it can take, and how she works to keep her own mental health strong along the way.We also chat about the importance of raising awareness, breaking stigma, and celebrating the small wins that mean everything.If you’re a parent, carer, teacher, or simply someone who wants to understand SEN better, this is an honest and heartfelt conversation you won’t want to miss.#SENParenting #SpecialEducationalNeeds #ParentSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #SoItsNotJustMePodcast

This week, I'm joined once again by Jamie to talk about the role music plays in mental health - and how being part of a band has shaped his emotional wellbeing.Together, we explore how music can become a lifeline through tough times, the unique connection that comes from creating with others, and the ways performance, creativity, and sound can all support healing.If you’ve ever turned to music for comfort, or felt a song express what words couldn’t, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now to discover how harmony, rhythm, and community can lift your spirit, one song at a time.

This week’s episode is exactly what it sounds like — we’re chatting about everything! From irrational pet peeves to 00s fashion disasters, guilty pleasures, and random nonsense, it’s a cosy catch-up full of laughter and relatable chaos.Grab your tea (or wine, we don’t judge) and tune in for an easy listen that’ll make you smile.

This week I’m joined by Lisa, who uses painting and creativity to support others on their wellbeing journey. Lisa began her business during COVID, creating workshops that bring people together through art. We talk about how creativity can ease stress, why making space for art matters, and the power of community in difficult times.Join us as we explore how art can become a tool for self-care, healing, and connection.If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the channel for more conversations that remind us we’re not alone.

This week I’m joined by not one, but two guests as we dive into the world of dating apps — the highs, the lows, and the downright cringe. From ghosting and awkward first messages to surprisingly sweet connections, we’re sharing our real stories about what it’s like to date in the age of swiping.We also explore how dating apps can affect our mental health, the pressure to present ourselves online, and how to set boundaries while still staying open to connection.✨ Whether you’ve found love online or sworn off the apps forever, this episode will remind you: it’s not just you.🎙️ New episodes every week.💬 Join the conversation on socials @soitsnotjustme#DatingApps #ModernDating #SoItsNotJustMePodcast #MentalHealthAndDating #PodcastCommunity

In this episode Craig is back to discuss what it means to be a man in today’s world. He shares his journey as a father raising a daughter, the role community and sport (jujitsu and five-a-side football) play in his mental health, and the challenges men face as gender roles continue to shift.We ask the difficult questions:- Where do men stand now that traditional roles have changed?- Are men truly supported in their mental health?- How do fatherhood, friendships, and community shape modern masculinity?This is an open, honest discussion about identity, balance, and belonging - and why men might feel “lost” in 2025.👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to the channel for more episodes.

In this episode, Catie is back to share her experience with a side of mom guilt that doesn’t get talked about enough - the guilt of loving your career.After having two children and preparing to return to work, she’s realized that part of her is excited. She misses her job, enjoys working, and thrives in her professional life. But with that joy comes guilt - guilt for looking forward to adult conversations, coffee in peace, and feeling like herself again.We explore the complex emotions that come with being a mother who also loves her career, why that’s okay, and how she's reconnecting with herself in the process - finding her pink in the middle of motherhood and ambition.This one’s for anyone who’s ever felt torn between love for their children and love for their work - and needed to hear that both can exist side by side.Put the kettle on and join us for an honest, permission-giving chat about real life, real identity, and letting go of the pressure to be everything, all at once. #MomGuilt #WorkingMum #CareerAndMotherhood #FindingMyPink #SoItsNotJustMe #PodcastForMothers #MentalHealthForMums #ReturningToWork #WorkingMomTruths #HonestMotherhood #RealTalkPodcast #SelfCompassion #WomenWhoWork #GuiltFreeMotherhood #IdentityAfterKids 

In this week’s episode I’m joined by Tina who shares her story of going through a divorce after decades of marriage and raising two children. We talk about what it’s like to end a long-term relationship, the emotional highs and lows, and the surprising moments of clarity along the way.She opens up about navigating family dynamics with adult children, finding strength in unexpected places, and what it really means to rediscover yourself after a marriage ends. Whether you’ve been through divorce, know someone who has, or you’re simply curious about the healing process, this episode is a reminder that you're not alone—and that starting over can be a beginning, not just an end.🧠 Topics include:The emotional rollercoaster of divorceMaintaining healthy relationships with adult childrenRebuilding identity after a long-term relationshipThe importance of support and self-careLearning to thrive, not just survive💬 “At first I didn’t know who I was without him… but now I’m learning I was never lost, just buried.”🔗 Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode with a friend, and visit the website for the free companion worksheet and journal.#DivorceRecovery #MentalHealth #LifeAfterDivorce #SoItsNotJustMe #Healing #WomensVoices #DivorceSupport #PodcastForWomen

Sports are for everyone. Yet for so many women, being a fan comes with extra pressure: the stereotypes, the gatekeeping, and the constant need to “prove” we belong.This week, Laura is back to talk about the stigma women face as sports fans, the frustrating “quiz culture” we’re put through, and how our love of the game is often dismissed. We also dive into the rise of women’s sports and what true inclusion in fandom could look like.Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or just starting to love a sport, this episode will remind you: you don’t have to justify your passion.🎧 Listen now for real talk, laughs, and a reminder that you are not alone.#WomensSports #SportsFans #SoItsNotJustMePodcast #BonusEpisode #podcast 

In this episode I’m joined by Jess who is sharing her journey of losing weight with the help of Mounjaro, a medication increasingly being used for weight management. We talk about what led her to choose this path, what the process was like, and the emotional highs and lows along the way.She opens up about the judgment she’s faced, the misconceptions around weight loss injections, and how she’s reclaimed her health—on her own terms. If you’ve ever considered weight loss medication, felt stuck in your journey, or struggled with body image and stigma, this one’s for you.💬 We cover:– Why she chose Mounjaro– What no one tells you about injectable medications– Mental health and body image– Stigma around "quick fixes"– What support really looks like on a health journey🔗 Connect with us:Instagram: @soitsnotjust.meEmail: [email protected] (for guest inquiries)#SoItsNotJustMe #WeightLossJourney #Mounjaro #WeightLossSupport #BodyImage #MentalHealthMatters #GLP1 #MounjaroJourney #HealthNotShame #PodcastForWomen #RealTalkPodcast #WeightLossMedication #StigmaFree #WellnessPodcast #SelfWorth #HealthOnMyTerms

This week on So, It’s Not Just Me, Catie is returning to share her powerful story of growing up with a parent who struggled with addiction. From missed milestones to moments of silent strength, she opens up about how her childhood shaped her teenage years, early adulthood, and her life now as a wife and mom.We talk about what it means to set healthy boundaries, how to navigate emotional triggers during life’s big events, and how she’s breaking the cycle for her own children. This conversation is honest, emotional, and full of wisdom — especially for those who know what it’s like to love someone with an addiction.💛 Whether this is your experience or someone you love is living it, we hope this episode reminds you: you're not alone, and your healing matters. 📘 Catie’s mom has also written a book about her own journey through addiction and recovery. You can check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C12D3F5Y/ref=mp_s_a_1_5

In this episode, I'm joined by a guest whose story is a testament to the strength of chosen family and the resilience of the human spirit. Raised by his great aunt and godmother, he shares how powerful female figures became his anchors through an unconventional upbringing.We explore the emotional complexities of sibling relationships shaped by being raised in different homes, and how those early dynamics influence connection and trust later in life.He opens up about experiencing multiple devastating losses in a short period—and the trauma, perspective shifts, and personal growth that followed. Together, we discuss the vital role of coping mechanisms, the importance of mental health support, and how finding community can help pull us through life’s toughest moments.

In this week’s episode, we're chatting with the fabulous Ken Lambert, who takes us behind the scenes of his journey into the world of drag—from discovering his love for performing, to creating a fierce persona that lets him shine in every sense of the word. He spills the tea on what it's like to run a local gay bar, the highs and lows of owning your identity, and how stepping into heels helped him step into his power.We talk relationships, chosen family, and the not-so-glam side of dealing with hate and stigma—and how he handles it all with grace and a good sense of humor.Oh, and we’re not forgetting our history queens either! We’re shouting out William Dorsey Swann, the first known drag queen (yes, way back in the 1800s!), and UK legend Lily Savage, who brought sparkle and sass to the stage long before RuPaul hit our screens.If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like behind the wig and lashes—or just need a reminder that being your true self is more than enough—this one’s for you. 💖🎧 Tune in now and remember: you’re not alone, and it’s okay to take up space like the glittery badass you are. 👑#DragQueen #DragLife #ServingRealness #LGBTQStories #MentalHealthChat #ChosenFamilyFeels #DragIsHealing #WilliamDorseySwann #DannyLaRue #SoItsNotJustMe #DragCommunity #BeExtra #QueerVoices #SupportLocalDrag #SafeSpaces #DragIsArt #GlitterAndGrit #AuthenticAF #DragPodcast #SlayAllDay

🎂 We made it… ONE WHOLE YEAR! That’s 365 days, countless cups of tea, amazing guests, deep chats, lots of laughs, and maybe a few tears (the good kind). In this special birthday episode, I’m throwing on my party hat (metaphorically… maybe) and celebrating with YOU—because we did this together.Expect:🎉 A trip down memory lane🎧 The bloopers and best bits🥳 Listener love🔮 A cheeky look at what’s coming next🍾 And a whole lot of gratitude wrapped in confettiWhether you've been here since day one or just wandered into the party—thank you. Truly. This cosy corner of the internet wouldn’t be the same without you. Now grab your fave drink, put your feet up, and let’s celebrate!#PodcastBirthday #SoItsNotJustMe #OneYear

We’re back—and what better way to return than on World Book Day with a deep dive into the world of reading, BookTok, and the growing love of romantasy books!In this episode I brought back Laura because not only is she loads of fun, she has helped me reignite my love for reading! We're going to discuss how her love for reading helped her through tough times, and introduced her to genres she never expected to love! We chat about how reading impacts mental health, why romantic fantasy is dominating bookshelves, and how social media is shaping the way we read.We also talk about:-Reading challenges and how they keep us motivated-Why BookTok is helping bookstores thrive again-The mental escape books offer when life feels overwhelmingWhether you're a long-time book lover or just getting started, this episode will remind you that it's never too late to fall back in love with stories—and that you're definitely not alone.🎙️ Welcome back—it's good to be here.#SoItsNotJustMe #PodcastRelease #WorldBookDay #BookTok #RomantasyReads #MentalHealthAwareness #ReadingIsHealing #PodcastCommunity #BooksOfTikTok #NewEpisode

This week I’m joined by Rachel, a police officer, mum, and full-time human being trying to keep it all together (relatable, right?).We talk about:What it’s really like working in the police forceHow she balances high-pressure shifts with family lifeThe mental load of being the “strong one”Why chasing waterfalls and spending time in nature has become her go-to for peaceThe surprising moments that have shaped her life and mindsetWhether you're juggling a demanding job, parenting chaos, or just looking for a little calm in the storm — this one’s for you.💬 And remember — if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, you’re not alone.

What happens when you choose not to have kids - and people really don’t get it? In this episode, I’m joined by a guest who’s living her best child-free life - and doing it with confidence, joy, and absolutely no regrets.We talk about why she made the decision, how people have reacted, and the surprising freedom and happiness that’s come from going against the grain. She’s still an amazing part of the lives of her niece, nephew, and stepchildren - just without the 2am feedings and constant school pickups.This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt judged for not fitting the mold, who’s tired of hearing “you’ll change your mind,” or who simply wants to celebrate living life your way.✨ Topics include:Family pressure and societal expectationsWhy choosing child-free doesn’t mean choosing lonelinessThe joy of saying “no thanks” to the normFinding fulfillment in other relationshipsProtecting your mental health by living authentically💬 It’s honest, cozy, and a reminder that whatever you choose - you’re not alone.#SoItsNotJustMe #ChildFreeByChoice #MentalHealthAwareness #UnfilteredConversations #PodcastCommunity #WomenWithoutKids #FreedomToChoose #youdoyou 

This week, I’m joined by a truly inspiring guest who shares his raw and powerful journey through health anxiety, addiction, and recovery.What started as health-related panic spiraled into a life-threatening alcohol addiction—drinking neat vodka from morning to night. He opens up about the moment he was told he had less than 24 hours to live, the turning point that saved him, and how he’s now been sober for over four years.He also talks about how he used his experiences to help others, founding S62, a support group for people struggling with addiction that now has lottery funding, and creating MindFest, a music festival raising awareness and funds for mental health.This is an episode about pain, resilience, rebuilding your life, and the incredible power of turning suffering into support for others.💬 We cover:How health anxiety can spiral out of controlUsing alcohol as self-medicationThe road to sobriety and what recovery looks likeStarting a support group (S62) and the importance of communityThe creation of MindFest and using music to raise awareness🎧 Whether you’ve struggled yourself or supported someone through addiction or anxiety, this episode is a reminder: you’re not alone—and it’s never too late to rewrite your story.

This episode is one I never thought I’d release. Originally, I planned to share our fertility journey and the excitement of being pregnant, joined by a wonderful friend who had also recently discovered she was expecting. But life took an unexpected turn.At 17 weeks, we said goodbye to our baby boy. Recording this episode was never part of the plan; it was more of a self-healing exercise while waiting to see my therapist—a way to process the unimaginable. Yes, I cry a lot during this episode, and I may not have all the words or answers, but it’s raw, honest, and real.The heart of this podcast has always been to let people know they’re not alone. If you’ve experienced a similar loss, I hope this episode resonates with you and offers a sense of connection in a difficult time.I don’t expect this episode to get many listens—after all, who wants to hear someone cry for 30 minutes? But if you do, thank you for your time, empathy, and understanding.As always, my inbox is open. If you need someone to talk to, vent to, or share your story with, I’m here to listen. 💛

In this episode Keanan and I sit down and chat about how he has transformed his life from growing up in Doncaster, England, to building a successful career in New York. As a musician, fashion designer, and author, he shares his unique story of how punk rock shaped his creative journey, both musically and stylistically.We dive deep into his experiences working with legends like David Bowie and the Sex Pistols, how the rebellious spirit of the 1970s punk rock movement grabbed his attention, and the impact it continues to have on his designs today.Join us as we explore the challenges of moving from a small town to a big city, balancing multiple creative roles, and how he stays true to his roots while navigating the ever-changing fashion and music industries. Whether you're a fan of punk rock or curious about the creative process, this episode will inspire and entertain!

In this episode, we sit down with Francesca who shares her journey of navigating life's unexpected twists and turns. From becoming a mum to moving across the world, her story is one of resilience, courage, and adaptation. After returning to the UK before a massive earthquake struck, she later moved back to New Zealand, determined to build a new life and, ultimately, a business to support others facing similar challenges.Join us as we explore the emotional highs and lows of emigrating, the cultural differences between New Zealand and the UK, and how these moves shaped her as a mother, a wife, and an entrepreneur. We dive into the mental health impact of such transitions and discuss her new venture dedicated to helping others adjust to life abroad. Whether you're considering a big life change, have experienced homesickness, or simply love stories of resilience, this episode is for you!

In this episode I sit down with a guest who shares his deeply personal journey of transitioning from female to male. He opens up about when he first knew he wanted to transition, how his friends and family reacted, and what it was like navigating a world that often got his identity wrong.We talk candidly about the emotional, social, and mental challenges of transitioning, what it feels like to be misgendered, and how a strong support system made all the difference. He also shares what he hopes for his future—and for the future of the trans community.Whether you're transitioning, supporting someone who is, or just want to understand more—this episode is an honest and heartfelt reminder that none of us are alone.✨ Topics covered:When he knew he wanted to transitionReactions from friends and familyCoping with being misgenderedMental health and support systemsHopes for the future as a trans man🧠 You're not alone.🫶 Let's talk about it.

 In this heartfelt episode, Catie opens up about her pregnancy loss and what it’s like to carry both love and grief at the same time. 🕯️🤍 

 Laura shares how gaming became her passion, community, and creative outlet. This one’s for the girls with controllers — we see you. 🎮💥 

Ever dream of packing up and starting fresh? Bethany did just that — hear how she left everything behind and found freedom, sunshine, and herself in Australia. 🌏✈️ 

Emma talks tools, tenacity, and toxic comments in a male-dominated industry — and why being a woman in construction is both challenging and rewarding. 🛠️💪

We’ve all heard the comments — but how do we unlearn them? Stacy joins me again to talk about the impact of body shaming and how we begin to heal. 💬 

 Tom shares his experience with PTSD after serving in the military — from the silent struggles to the strength in speaking out. A powerful, eye-opening conversation. 🎖️🕊️ 

From MySpace to TikTok — Jay and I reflect on how social media has evolved, shaped us, and messed with our minds. It’s real, it’s raw, and it’s kinda funny too. 📱🧠

 Think you know PMS? Kelsey shares the surprising things she learned in her 30s, and how hormones can affect our mental health more than we realise. 🔄🌸 Creators & Guests Joanna Wood - Host Kelsey - Guest

Relationships aren’t always easy — Stacy joins us for an honest chat about love, heartbreak, healing, and the strength it takes to walk away. 💔💬

 Karly opens up about her decision to explore sobriety, what she’s learned along the way, and how cutting back (or cutting out) alcohol has impacted her mental health, relationships, and confidence. 🍸✨