Continuing the Conversation with Sadie

In her first ever tri‑conversation (because Sadie never does things by halves), she brings together Suzanne Lofthus, Artistic Director of Cutting Edge Theatre, and Amy, a creative practitioner working with young people and disabled adults. Together, they explore community, connection, and the subtle, often unseen moments that shape how people feel held, included, and truly themselves. The episode also shines a light on Creative Care — an approach that began in America and is quietly transforming how we support people. It works, it’s imaginative, and it deserves its own shout‑out. A warm, honest, slightly chaotic‑in‑the‑best‑way conversation… with just enough mystery woven through it that listeners may find themselves wondering what else is happening beneath the surface — and pressing play to find out. https://cuttingedgetheatre.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/CuttingEdgeTheatreScotland https://www.instagram.com/cuttingedge_theatre?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Chapters00:00 Introduction to Creative Care02:24 Roots and Motivation in Creative Care06:09 The Emotional Landscape of Creative Facilitation12:37 Creating Safe Spaces for Expression14:42 Navigating Emotional Realities in Care17:12 The Transformative Power of Community Theatre20:50 The Importance of Communication in Care25:53 Building Confidence and Inclusivity30:57 Challenging Misconceptions About Disability37:58 Empathy and Connection in Community39:52 Leadership and Future Possibilities44:46 Inclusivity in Theatre and Care Homes46:52 Creative Collaboration and Future Projects50:02 Vision for the Future of Creative Care54:45 The Power of Imagination in Care01:04:55 Closing Reflections on Creativity and Care

In this insightful interview, clinical psychologist Julia Frearson shares her holistic approach to mental health, emphasizing embodied practices, compassion, and community support. Discover how her work integrates psychology, yoga, and compassion-focused therapy to foster healing, resilience, and flourishing.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Compassionate Care02:41 Julia's Journey into Psychology and Yoga09:13 The Importance of Individualized Therapy12:31 Understanding Emotions and Healing18:17 The Role of Compassion in Therapy24:29 Challenges of the Medical Model28:59 Building Community and Connection34:02 The Ripple Effect of Self-Compassion43:04 Empowering the Next GenerationEMDR Therapy - https://emdria.org/Compassionate Mind Foundation - https://compassionatemind.co.uk/Julia Frearson's Practice - Mind Body Perform - https://mindbodyperform.co.uk/Website - https://mindbodyperform.co.uk/LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/julia-frearson

In this conversation, David shares his journey and insights into dementia care, emphasizing the importance of person-led approaches, emotional needs, and the power of music in connecting with individuals living with dementia. He discusses the need for change in traditional care practices, the significance of language, and the importance of recognising the unique identities of those affected by dementia. David advocates for a shift from person-centred to person-led care, highlighting the role of autonomy and dignity in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with dementia.http://www.innovare.care/Chapters:00:00 Introduction to David's Journey03:10 The Impact of Early Experiences on Dementia Care06:11 Challenging Traditional Views in Dementia Care08:56 The Power of Music and Memory12:11 The Four Cs of Person-Led Care14:55 Understanding Emotional Needs in Dementia Care18:01 The Importance of Connection and Identity20:57 Empowerment vs. Autonomy in Care23:47 The Role of Language in Dementia Care26:45 Living Well with Dementia: A Realistic Perspective30:04 The Need for Change in Dementia Care Practices32:56 The Importance of Specific Diagnoses36:09 Bridging the Gap Between Research and Practice38:58 The Role of Environment in Dementia Care41:49 The Challenge of Living Well with Dementia44:53 Future Directions in Dementia Care48:01 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this conversation, Sadie and Carla Cohen explore the multifaceted nature of leadership, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, alignment, and daily practices. Carla shares insights on how women leaders can navigate cultural patterns, overcome emotional barriers, and create a soul-aligned leadership culture that fosters inclusivity and authenticity. The discussion highlights the significance of being present, listening to one's body, and the role of emotional intelligence in effective communication and interaction within teams and environments. In this conversation, Carla Cohen and Sadie discuss the importance of embracing imperfection in leadership, the significance of leading from clarity, and the evolving role of women in leadership. They explore how vulnerability and authenticity can enhance leadership effectiveness, the necessity of self-awareness, and the need for women to assert their confidence in the workplace. The discussion also touches on the importance of setting boundaries and making choices that align with personal values and well-being, ultimately aiming for a future where women leaders thrive without sacrificing their health or happiness.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Clarity02:57 Leadership as a Daily Practice06:42 Daily Practices for Aligned Leadership10:30 Cultural Patterns Affecting Women Leaders13:40 Emotional Barriers in Leadership15:29 Shifting Culture Through Behavior21:36 The Essence of Soul-Aligned Leadership22:26 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership31:39 Communicating with Authority and Authenticity32:54 Embracing Imperfection in Leadership39:43 Leading from Clarity51:04 The Future of Leadership and Women's Empowermenthttps://linktr.ee/CarlaSrideviCohenhttps://www.linkedin.com/safety/go/?url=www.womenshealthrevolution.com&urlhash=I17q&isSdui=true&lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3Bb5AyVIIeQfGjW8%2BDv0dTFw%3D%3D

In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, host Sadie Ravening speaks with Mike Strauss, a personal trainer and father of three, including a child with Down syndrome. They discuss the integration of emotional intelligence in fitness, parenting, and community support. Mike shares his journey into fitness, the impact of parenthood on his worldview, and the importance of reflective practice. The conversation emphasizes the need for inclusion in fitness, the significance of emotional intelligence in daily interactions, and strategies for supporting vulnerable clients in the gym. In this conversation, Mike Strauss shares his insights on resilience, parenting, and the importance of inclusion in fitness and community. He discusses the challenges of navigating life with a child with additional needs, emphasizing the need for emotional intelligence and support systems. Mike advocates for sustainable fitness habits that honor individual realities and stresses the significance of creating inclusive environments where everyone feels valued and capable. The dialogue highlights the power of everyday interactions in building a culture of dignity and belonging.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Emotional Intelligence in Care02:19 Mike's Journey into Fitness and Parenting04:35 The Impact of Parenthood on Personal Growth06:54 Reflective Practice and Its Importance09:45 Building Strong Foundations in Life13:49 Emotional Intelligence in Action21:48 Supporting Vulnerable Clients in the Gym24:24 Building Resilience in Relationships27:08 Navigating Parenthood and Professional Life28:53 Facing Challenges: A Personal Journey32:11 The Importance of Sustainable Fitness Habits35:42 Resilience in Parenting Children with Additional Needs38:40 Creating Inclusive Communities41:55 Everyday Interactions and Genuine Inclusion

🔥 This episode is a masterclass in what real, human-centred care looks like.Sadie is joined by the phenomenal Maggie Atkinson for a conversation that crackles with insight, courage, and heart. Together they dive deep into safeguarding, leadership, and the kind of emotional intelligence that transforms not just teams, but entire communities.Maggie brings decades of wisdom in children’s rights, ethical leadership, and social justice, offering a rare, unfiltered look at what it takes to lead with integrity in complex systems. Expect bold reflections on resilience, the power of reflective practice, and why honest, grounded community care is the future of our sector.If you’re passionate about professional development, values-driven practice, and reshaping care for the better, this conversation will light you up.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Maggie Atkinson's Impact03:39 Foundations and Core Values in Leadership08:25 The Evolution of Values Through Experience10:41 Staying Grounded in High-Pressure Environments16:19 The Essence of Ethical Leadership20:13 Emotional Intelligence in Safeguarding Work23:27 Navigating Leadership Decisions and Team Dynamics26:49 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership29:05 The Importance of Honest Communication33:15 Training and Professional Development in Care34:17 Building Trust and Connection in Care38:00 The Role of Reflective Practice in Leadership43:05 Creating a Welcoming Community Environment44:42 The Impact of First Impressions46:37 Encouraging Honest Reflection in Teams49:17 The Power of Reflective Practice53:15 Resilience in Care and Safeguarding57:59 Cultural and Structural Changes in Care01:02:33 Signs of Hope and Innovation in Care01:03:33 Values and Responsibilities in Leadership

In this conversation, Sadie and Dani explore the themes of care, emotional intelligence, and the practices that foster compassionate communities. Dani shares her journey as a healer, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and community in her work. They discuss the significance of self-discovery, trust, and emotional intelligence in guiding others through transitions and profound changes. The conversation highlights the necessity of maintaining emotional boundaries while providing support to others, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around us. In this conversation, Dani Margeaux shares insights on grounding techniques, the importance of reflective care, and the journey of resilience through personal transformation. She emphasizes the need for self-care and empowerment in the healing process, highlighting the shift towards conscious awakening in society. The discussion also touches on the future of care and the significance of filling one's own cup before extending help to others.Chapters00:00 Exploring Care and Compassionate Communities03:08 Core Values in Healing Practices06:02 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Trust09:01 Emotional Intelligence in Soul Work11:50 Navigating Transitions and Life Changes14:57 Maintaining Emotional Boundaries in Healing Work16:38 Grounding and Energetic Protection Rituals20:33 Reflective Care and Self-Discovery29:36 Resilience Through Transformation30:55 The Future of Care and Conscious Awakening33:05 Empowerment Through Self-Care

In this conversation, Sadie and Sirisha explore the intricate relationship between the nervous system, emotional intelligence, and trauma-informed care. Suresha shares her insights on polyvagal theory, the importance of safety in the nervous system, and how reflective care can create meaningful shifts in individuals. They discuss the significance of regulation before skill acquisition, the role of embodied awareness, and the future of trauma-informed practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for caregivers to prioritize their own regulation and the impact of these practices on building compassionate communities.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Care and Emotional Intelligence02:03 Understanding Polyvagal Theory04:02 Core Values in Nervous System Work06:04 Navigating Safety and Regulation08:00 Emotional Intelligence and the Nervous System10:03 Regulation Skills and Practices12:00 Grounding Practices for Caregivers14:03 Reflective Care in Trauma-Informed Work16:00 Reconnecting with Embodied Awareness18:01 Meaningful Shifts through Reflective Care19:53 Resilience and Nervous System Capacity21:59 The Future of Trauma-Informed Care23:59 Mindset and Regulation in Caregiving

In this conversation, Sadie and Tracey McGee explore the core elements of quality care, emphasising the relational aspect of care work. They discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and the necessity of reflective practice for continuous improvement in care settings. Tracey shares her insights on how to foster a healthy care culture, the challenges faced by care workers, and the significance of understanding the emotional weight carried by staff. The discussion highlights the need for empathy, effective communication, and a commitment to learning from experiences in order to provide high-quality care. In this conversation, Sadie and Tracey McGee explore the essential elements of creating a positive culture in care settings, emphasizing the importance of reflective practice, emotional intelligence, and the need for strong relationships. They discuss how to assess care quality using sensory experiences, recognise excellence in care services, and the significance of resilience in the workforce. The conversation also highlights the need for cultural and structural changes to ensure sustainable care, the signs of hope and innovation in the sector, and the qualities future leaders should prioritise.Chapters:00:00 The Essence of Quality Care10:55 Emotional Intelligence in Care Leadership18:58 Reflective Practice and Continuous Improvement24:19 Recognizing Excellence in Care Services29:56 Resilience in Care: Thriving vs. Surviving34:50 Cultural and Structural Changes for Sustainable Care

In this conversation, Greg shares his transformative journey from self-doubt to self-love, emphasising the importance of emotional intelligence, self-respect, and reflective care. He discusses the core values that helped him overcome adversity, the lessons learned from his experiences in arm wrestling, and the significance of creating space for personal growth. Greg highlights the evolving nature of care in society and the mindsets necessary for the next generation to rewrite their inner narratives.Chapters:00:00From Self-Doubt to Self-Love: Greg's Journey02:49Core Values and Mindset Shifts05:45Practicing Self-Love in Daily Life08:35Resilience Through Athletic Experience11:08Emotional Intelligence and Healing14:02Navigating Rejection and Maintaining Boundaries16:40Reflective Care and Inner Critic19:31Creating Space for Personal Growth22:12The Importance of Reflection in Growth24:35Hope for the Future of Care27:10Mindsets for the Next Generation

In this conversation, Sadie and Lyn Dance explore the themes of emotionally intelligent care, reflective practice, and the challenges faced by families navigating complex care systems. Lynne shares her extensive experience in special education, emphasizing the importance of compassion, holistic family support, and the need for systemic change in education and care. They discuss the emotional toll on educators, the significance of reflective leadership, and the hope that comes from working with children and families. The conversation highlights the intertwined nature of care and education, advocating for a more compassionate and inclusive approach.00:00 Introduction to Emotionally Intelligent Care02:57 Foundations and Values in Special Education06:00 Supporting the Whole Family09:00 Systemic Gaps and Emotional Impact11:59 Emotional Containment in Crisis15:00 Resilience in Educators and Leaders18:02 Reflective Leadership and Advocacy20:58 Vision for Change in Education and Care24:01 Hope and Motivation in Education

In this conversation, Sadie and Neil Thompson delve into the significance of reflective practice and emotional intelligence in the care sector. They explore how reflection can enhance care quality, prevent burnout, and foster emotional safety for both caregivers and those they support. Neil emphasises the importance of self-awareness, the role of emotional intelligence in understanding others, and the necessity of setting boundaries to maintain personal well-being. The discussion also highlights practical tools for reflection and the need for supportive leadership in care settings.00:00 Foundations of Reflective Practice05:10 The Importance of Reflection in Care10:13 Emotional Intelligence and Reflective Practice15:00 Overcoming Myths in Reflection20:02 Emotional Blind Spots in Care Teams25:23 Building Resilience Through Reflection27:59 The Role of Reflective Practice in Care Work35:13 Setting Boundaries: The Key to Preventing Burnout38:50 Tools for Reflective Resilience in Care44:51 The Importance of Knowing Your Role46:01 Final Thoughts: Values and Support in Care WorkLink to Dr Neil Thompson's Substack - https://open.substack.com/pub/neilthompsonacademy/p/february-update?utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=web

In this episode of Continuing the Conversation, Sadie and Professor Julianne Mayer explore the vital intersection of emotional intelligence, research, and social care. They discuss the importance of embedding evidence-based practices in everyday care, the role of emotional intelligence in leadership, and the need for reflective spaces for carers. Julianne emphasises the significance of relationships in care, the complexities of emotional labour, and the ripple effect of small changes in care settings. The conversation highlights the importance of community, connection, and the ongoing journey of learning and adapting in the field of care.Research is core to my being.Everything I do is guided by four frameworks.Emotional labour is when you're masking your true feelings.We need to create communities where people can look out for one another.Care is not just a service, it's a practice of noticing.Research isn't just about evidence, it's about relationships.We have to create safe spaces for reflection.Change is always possible; believe in the ripple effect.00:00 Introduction to Emotional Intelligence in Care02:00 Foundations and Values in Social Care10:03 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership19:02 Building Resilience Through Reflection27:01 Creating Supportive Environments for Reflection

In today's podcast, the episode is a gentle but powerful one, focusing on how Mark Topps holds space for others while protecting his own energy. The discussion delves into why boundaries, far from being barriers, can actually deepen our empathy. Reflective practice and its impact on leadership style are explored, with insights into balancing empathy with boundaries in high-pressure environments.00:00:04 - Introduction to Empathy and Boundaries00:00:53 - Holding Space and Protecting Energy00:03:13 - Reflective Practice in Leadership00:04:54 - Reflection and Course Correction00:08:33 - Balancing Empathy with Boundaries00:11:01 - Importance of Self-awareness00:12:18 - Honesty and Transparency in Leadership00:20:41 - Reflection on Setbacks00:24:07 - Work-life Balance Challenges00:37:50 - Conclusion: Leadership Beyond Visibility

This episode explores the empowerment of self-employed carers, focusing on community building and professional growth. Sadie and Maria discuss the values that guide carers, the emotional intelligence that sustains them, and the reflective practices that help them grow. They also share insights into the future of self-employed care and the evolving role of the Professional Carers Network.00:00 Introduction to Care and Community02:05 Foundations and Values of the Professional Carers Network04:59 Empowerment and Support for Self-Employed Carers07:58 The Importance of Registration and Professionalism09:58 Career Development in Social Care13:58 Shifting Perceptions of Carers19:06 Community and Peer Support in Care23:20 Building Community Connections25:15 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Care28:13 Essential Emotional Skills for Carers33:03 Training for Emotional Resilience35:46 Transforming Family Dynamics through Emotional Intelligence40:44 Reflective Practice and Career Development45:59 Pricing Strategies and Business Confidence52:01 Balancing Emotional Demands and Personal Well-being58:05 Navigating Career Transitions in Care01:03:57 The Future of Care: Professionalism and RecognitionHere is a link to join the Pro Carer Network: www.skool.com/procarernetwork

In this episode of "Continuing the Conversation with Sadie," Professor Vic Rayner, OBE, CEO of the National Care Forum, discusses her leadership journey and advocacy for quality care. The conversation explores the importance of dignity, emotional literacy, and systemic innovation in the care sector, highlighting the role of not-for-profit care models and the need for emotional safety in leadership.💛 Support the podcast on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/ContinuingtheConversationwithSadie🌐 Learn more and explore support options:www.continuingcarewithsadie.co.uk/pricing-plans/list00:00 Introduction to Care and Leadership02:13 Foundations of Leadership in Care05:34 Personal Values and Leadership Style08:34 Emotional Literacy in Leadership10:55 Innovations in Care and Technology13:34 Building Connections and Community16:54 The Role of Not-for-Profit Care19:42 Addressing Loneliness and Isolation22:34 Preparing for an Aging Population25:35 The Importance of Asking for Help26:49 Advocacy for Quality Care30:49 Emotional Intelligence in Care32:27 Training and Development in Care37:44 Embedding Emotional Safety in Care44:01 The Role of Policymakers in Quality Care48:53 Defining Values of Not-for-Profit Care

Hi, I’m Sadie Ravening, and welcome to Continuing the Care Conversation! This podcast explores the real, often unseen side of care — from boundaries and resilience to the human stories behind the work. Whether you’re a carer, a family member, or part of a care organisation, this is the space to share, learn, and grow. Let’s continue the conversation!