Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali

"Where is this guy? I want to be rescued. And then I realised: No one is coming to save me."In Episode 31 of Speak Shame, author Sacha Hughes shares her journey from self-sabotage to self-love and how she turned her pain into a published novel. When Sacha was 24, her mum died of cancer. She turned to Pinot Grigio to numb the grief. For years, she believed Mr. Right would rescue her from the depths of despair. When that marriage ended in divorce, she had a choice: sink or rise. She chose to rise. What you'll hear: ·      Growing up as the shy, anxious youngest of four already carrying the belief "I'm not good enough" ·      How her mother's death sent her into a decade of self-sabotage, numbing with drugs & alcohol, and searching for rescue ·      The moment she realised: "This breakdown is going to become my breakthrough" ·      Five years of reading spiritual books while her children slept, absorbing Louise Hay, Wayne Dyer, Eckhart Tolle ·      The Shirley Valentine moment that sparked her debut novel ·      Her advice: "Stop leaning into the hurt. Start leaning into the lessons." Sacha's message: You are responsible for your life. No one is coming to save you. Put on your own superhero cape and become your own heroine. If you've been waiting for rescue, if you're stuck in self-sabotage, if you feel like a fraud in your own life, this conversation is for you. Topics covered: grief and loss, self-sabotage, numbing with drugs and alcohol, people pleasing, imposter syndrome, spiritual awakening, divorce recovery, turning pain into purpose, finding your voice, writing as healing📖 Get Sacha's book: Love, Grief, and More Sex Than Pinot 📲 Connect with Sacha: Instagram @SachaHughes | SachaHughes.com | Facebook01:17 Meet Sacha Hughes02:00 Chapter One Childhood04:51 Losing Mum and Coping06:48 Marriage Divorce Turning Point07:36 Healing Books and Meaning08:39 Holiday Spark Writing Begins09:43 Becoming an Author12:50 Advice for Feeling Stuck15:54 Getting Visible and Connecting17:31 Where to Find Sacha18:24 Key Takeaways and Self Rescue20:15 Shame Themes and Identity22:13 Remarkable Woman TributeGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

"You don't have to explain your ambition. You can just be ambitious."In episode 30 of Speak Shame, journalist and author Rachel Hartigan shares her journey from feeling like an imposter in journalism to writing a book that unravels one of history's greatest mysteries: Amelia Earhart's disappearance.Rachel spent 12 years at National Geographic covering everything from genetic potatoes to the long road to women's suffrage. But it was two expeditions to a remote Pacific island – searching for traces of Amelia Earhart – that led her to write Lost: Amelia Earhart's Three Mysterious Deaths and One Extraordinary Life. What you'll hear: ·      How Rachel found her way into journalism (hint: her dad handed her a magazine) ·      Why she felt like she was "faking it" for years and when that changed ·      What she learned about storytelling from writing 200-word pieces on genetic potatoes ·      The moment she realised she could write a book ·      Why Amelia Earhart refused to explain her ambition and what that means for women today ·      Rachel's advice to her younger self: "Stop wasting energy on insecurity. Just try."Rachel's message: You don't have to justify what you want to do. Men don't have to explain themselves so why should we?If you're a writer, journalist, or woman tired of over-explaining your ambition, this conversation is for you.Topics covered: journalism career path, imposter syndrome, National Geographic, Amelia Earhart mystery, female ambition, writing a book, not apologising for your goals, women in history📖 Get Rachel's book: Lost: Amelia Earhart's Three Mysterious Deaths and One Extraordinary Life 🌐 Connect with Rachel: RachelHartiganAuthor.com; Instagram: @RJ_Hartigan 01:12 Meet Rachel Hartigan02:16 Origin Story: Reader03:46 Finding Journalism Path08:00 Owning Journalist Identity10:06 National Geographic Curiosity13:25 Lessons as a Reporter16:37 Amelia Earhart Expeditions20:25 Why Earhart Still Matters25:42 Ambition Without Apology28:23 Next Book Ideas29:37 Advice for Aspiring Writers31:25 Words to Younger Self32:31 Where to Find Rachel33:38 Remarkable Woman InspirationGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this inspiring episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Jennifer Schroeder, who at 58 was told her skills were “obsolete” and faced systemic age bias after hundreds of rejections. Jennifer recounts a planned 15-minute meeting where she was threatened with a performance improvement plan or severance, describing shock, shame, anger, and an out-of-body feeling, followed by months of replaying the event and noticing earlier signs like being excluded from meetings. Needing income, she tried various jobs while recovering for 12–18 months. She later posted videos on LinkedIn and TikTok, sparking thousands of responses from others experiencing similar discrimination, and grew The Unobsolete to support both HR leaders and professionals. Her key advice is to pay attention, document workplace issues, and remember you are not powerless or obsolete. 01:14 Introducing Jennifer Schroeder03:21 A Career Turned Upside Down04:43 Shock and Out of Body06:27 The Walk of Shame08:51 Red Flags in Hindsight11:50 Aftermath at Home15:11 Rebuilding After the Blow18:49 Birth of The Unobsolete20:48 Stories From the Community23:17 Turning Posts Into a Mission26:59 Practical Survival Advice29:48 Where to Find Jennifer30:39 Purpose From Pain31:48 Not Powerless33:27 A Remarkable Woman Tribute JENNIFER SCHROEDERLinkedin: Jennifer SchroederTikTok: @TheUnobsoleteInstagram: @TheUnobsoleteYouTube: Coming SoonGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali is joined by Dr. Jenn (Jennifer Noble), a licensed psychologist and parent coach specialising in children, teens, identity development, and the mixed-race population, and founder of Free to Be Collective. Dr Jenn shares her early life in Santa Monica shaped by diversity and international travel, and discusses her own mixed-race identity (African American and Sri Lankan Tamil) and how being read as Black influenced her understanding of perception and identity. She describes recognising a gap when mixed-race adults at community events revealed they had never processed identity with their parents, often feeling shame and pressure to choose one “box.” Dr Jenn explains her work helping parents understand the “third” mixed-race experience, increase intentional cultural exposure, and support adolescents navigating appearance, belonging, and assumptions. She highlights how societal expectations create shame and names Wangarī Maathai as a key inspiration.00:00 Mixed Race Identity Gap00:33 Meet Dr Connie Kerali01:09 Introducing Dr. Jenn02:47 Chapter One: Origins04:55 Finding Her Purpose08:27 The Need She Saw11:30 Coaching Parents Basics13:49 Cultural Exposure Matters16:53 Sade and Self Freedom19:40 Advice for Mixed Race Teens23:49 Key Takeaways for Everyone25:57 Connect with Dr Jenn27:23 Shame and One Box Thinking29:50 Remarkable Woman InspirationDR. JENN (JENNIFER NOBLE)INSTAGRAM: @DrJennPsychWEBSITE: FreeToBeCollective.com GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

Dr Connie Kerali has a powerful conversation with the remarkable, Neelu, a business coach and single mother of four, about domestic violence, coercive control, financial abuse, and marital rape within a 17-year marriage. Neelu shares growing up in a conservative Muslim family, being pushed toward marriage from her teens, and recognising dysfunction through motherhood and learning healthier parenting. She describes escalating control by her husband and in-laws, neglect during pregnancies, coerced pregnancies, and isolation, alongside family toxicity, stigma around mental health, and being treated as “crazy” after seeking therapy and Prozac for clinical depression. After repeated broken promises, failed couples counselling, and her husband leaving the family while withholding support, Neelu chose divorce and also distanced herself from her own family. She now rebuilds independence, sets boundaries, and uses social media to reduce shame and support other women.01:30 Introducing Neelu06:58 Motherhood Wake Up Call08:10 Unlearning and Boundaries19:45 Engagement Red Flags28:56 Control and Neglect33:37 Marital Rape and Pregnancy40:11 Fourth Pregnancy Turning Point43:40 Job Loss and COVID Return47:57 Back in Kerala Toxic Homes52:13 Depression and Seeking Help01:02:59 Money Control and Neglect01:07:19 Decision to Divorce01:12:33 Healing and Boundaries01:20:00 Happily Divorced Community01:24:40 No Shame and Hope01:29:56 Reclaiming Joy Post DivorceNEELUInstagram: @HappilyDivorced.NeeluUK SUPPORT SERVICESIn an emergency, dial 999; for non-emergencies or dial 101 (UK only)Find your nearest NHS Sexual Assault Referral CentreFind an NHS Talking Therapy service near you or contact your GP surgeryCharities: Mind, The Samaritans, Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, or Victim SupportGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode of Speak Shame we discuss sexual violence, attempted suicide, and eating disorders and with support links are provided below. Dr Connie interviews Poonnamme, a Sikh woman raised between the UK and Punjab, with over 35 years in health and social care, who now also facilitates Kundalini Shakti activation. She shares how being the first-born girl and only child brought intense pressure tied to family honour and community expectations, including expectations around education and status. She describes being sexually assaulted at 17 by someone known to the family and a subsequent attempted suicide. She shares that at 18 she entered an arranged marriage and describes living “two lives” as a Western professional and a traditional subservient wife. Becoming a mother was a turning point in her decision to break cycles for her daughter. Poonnamme reflects on how her experiences shaped her voice, resilience, and ability to feel pride in both who she is and who she was. 01:40 Introducing Poonnamme04:43 Firstborn Expectations08:24 Schooling And Illness11:14 Career Dreams Clash12:51 Sexual Assault Silence16:25 Aftermath And Survival25:10 Arranged Marriage Begins26:02 Two Lives At Home & At Work29:09 A Manager Believes34:59 Leaving To Break Cycles36:49 Healing And Sharing41:42 Trauma In The Body43:23 Eating Disorder Spiral47:36 Crossroads With Substances56:20 Self Healing Awakening01:00:00 Launching Healing Practice01:03:37 Identity And Finding Voice01:13:56 Advice For Feeling Stuck01:21:02 Where To Find Poonnamme01:27:51 Remarkable Women And GratitudePOONNAMMEInstagram: @JagoSacredEnergyWebsite: JagoSacredEnergy.co.ukUK SUPPORT SERVICESIn an emergency, dial 999; for non-emergencies or dial 101 (UK only)Find your nearest NHS Sexual Assault Referral CentreFind an NHS Talking Therapy service near you or contact your GP surgeryCharities: Mind, The Samaritans, Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, Victim SupportGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week’s episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali speaks with Vasavi Kumar, licensed therapist, mindset coach, voice actor, TV host, and author of Say It Out Loud. Vasavi shares how she began to stop doubting herself and regain trust in her voice by developing an “immaculate” inner narrative - one that is kind, encouraging, and safe - so that external criticism no longer carries the same weight. She explains how her work has evolved over 15 years alongside her own personal growth, and how sharing the truth with emotion and precision helps her connect with clients who are on a similar path. Vasavi offers a practical example of challenging limiting beliefs by reframing the fear of raising prices for her Out Loud School. She also reflects on Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance as a reminder for women of colour and children of immigrants to stay true to their culture without whitewashing themselves for acceptance. Vasavi discusses how grief after her father’s death in May 2025 led her to temporarily silence herself, and how returning to speaking out loud helped her process emotions and reduce shame. She closes by emphasising that shame festers in silence and isolation, and that everyone needs a safe place to be witnessed and express themselves - one of the reasons she created the Out Loud School, which she notes is not therapy but is therapeutic.00:00 The impact of silencing yourself and why shame shrivels when voiced01:05 Introduction to Speak Shame and guest Vasavi Kumar03:45 Vasavi’s “first chapter”: ending self-doubt and trusting her voice07:00 Rewiring the inner narrative and treating yourself with respect12:40 Helping others while doing your own ongoing inner work15:40 How telling the truth and sharing personal stories attracts aligned clients19:10 A practical reframe: challenging limiting beliefs when raising prices27:10 Bad Bunny, authenticity, and refusing to whitewash culture for acceptance35:30 Grief, losing your voice after her father’s death, and returning to expression42:10 Why not using your voice affects mental, emotional, physical and financial wellbeing48:15 Finding a safe place to “say it out loud” and what Out Loud School offers55:10 Where to find Vasavi and her remarkable woman inspirationVASAVI KUMAR• Instagram: @MyNameIsVasavi• Website: vasavikumar.comGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode, host Dr Connie Kerali interviews Faith Aisien-Ezugwu, author of the poetry and spoken word book 'I Am Here' and host of the 'Re: Series' podcast. Faith shares her journey from growing up in Nigeria and overcoming feelings of inadequacy and being labeled a 'failure' as a child, to her successful career in business and events management. She discusses her struggles with dyslexia, the emotional challenges she faced, and how therapy helped her find self-compassion and self-worth. Faith offers advice to listeners on believing in themselves, recognising their strengths, and seeking the support they need. She also reflects on the importance of discussing mental health issues and breaking cultural stigmas. The episode concludes with a powerful reading from her book, 'I Am Here'.01:23 Meet Faith Aisien-Ezugwu02:34 Chapter One Poem05:07 Childhood and Culture09:22 Dyslexia and Self Work12:59 Writing the Book15:30 Advice to Younger Self18:10 Mentoring and Hard Work20:29 Parenting and Breaking Silence24:09 Therapy and Self Compassion27:01 Remarkable Women Inspiration29:56 Final Reading and Wrap UpFAITH AISIEN-EZUGWUWebsite: FaithAisienEzugwu.comInstagram: @inkwellfaithPodcast: The Re: SeriesGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week's episode, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Emily Silva Hockstra, a five-time author and spiritual life coach. Emily shares her journey from an anxiety-ridden child to a successful author and coach. She discusses her personal experiences, including suffering a miscarriage at 18, transitioning from a corporate career to wine tasting, and eventually pursuing her passion for writing full-time. Emily delves into the profound impact of grief and shame on her life after a diagnosis of primary ovarian insufficiency meant that she was unable to conceive, detailing how therapy, yoga, and self-discovery have been crucial in her healing journey. She also talks about the creation of her books, such as 'Moonlight Gratitude' and 'Sunset Gratitude,' and emphasises the importance of seeking help and finding inner peace. The episode closes with Emily reflecting on her sources of inspiration and offering advice for those navigating their own struggles.01:06 Meet Emily Silva Hockstra02:09 Chapter One: Origins03:10 Corporate to Wine Life05:27 Quitting to Create06:04 Life Coaching Begins07:04 First Book Breakthrough08:52 Building the Book Series10:29 POI Diagnosis and Grief13:49 Day to Day Shame Spiral15:42 Therapy and Body Healing18:48 Vulnerability Takeaways20:36 Advice for Listeners22:14 Unpacking Shame Stories23:50 Coaching After Grief25:46 Stay Connected Online26:10 Final Reflections27:35 Remarkable Woman TributeEMILY SILVA HOCKSTRAInstagran: @SoulsAdventuresWebsite: SoulsAdventures.comGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week's episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Dr. Adia Gooden, a licensed clinical psychologist and expert on self-worth, self-compassion, and mental health. Dr. Adia shares her journey from growing up in Pasadena, California with professional parents, to becoming a renowned psychologist and speaker. She delves into the impact of early life challenges on her sensitivity to others' feelings, and how her academic and personal struggles with worthiness guided her career choice. Dr. Adia and Dr Connie discuss the importance of understanding self-worth stories, practicing self-compassion, and the layers of performance and vulnerability. Dr. Adia also opens up about her personal experiences with shame and depression, emphasising the need to reconnect with one's unconditional self-worth. The episode concludes with practical steps for listeners to begin their journey towards self-worth and self-compassion, along with a tribute to Dr. Adia's inspiring grandmother.01:20 Introducing Dr Adia Gooden02:53 Chapter One: Pasadena Roots03:29 Early Seeds of Self Doubt05:29 Why She Became a Psychologist09:12 Chasing Worth Through Achievement12:31 Rewrite Your Self Worth Stories15:27 The Masks We Wear17:56 First Steps Into Vulnerability21:48 Four Steps of Self Compassion25:42 A Shame Story and Healing29:17 Unconditional Self Worth Defined31:16 How to Work With Dr Adia32:43 Remarkable Woman: Nana TributeDR. ADIA GOODENEmail: [email protected]: DrAdiaGooden.comGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week's episode, we welcome Rebecca Bloom, a Yale and NYU-educated patient and workplace advocate, and author of 'When Women Get Sick'. Rebecca discusses her journey from a legal career specialising in employee benefits to her long-standing role as a patient advocate at Bay Area Cancer Connections. She shares personal experiences that fuelled her advocacy, including her family's battle with breast cancer and her own high-risk health journey. The conversation highlights the importance of building a support team, the challenges women face in healthcare, and the need for proactive planning. Rebecca also touches on her work as a storytelling coach and emphasises the critical nature of mental health and mindfulness in the healing process. 01:16 Meet Rebecca Bloom03:05 Rebecca’s Origin Story05:33 Why She Wrote When Women Get Sick07:56 Karen’s Insurance Battle11:12 Shame and Asking for Help15:13 Mindfulness That Actually Helps19:46 Rebecca’s High Risk Journey22:29 Draft Your Support Team25:25 Plan Before You’re Sick29:17 Hope for Women’s Health31:39 Key Takeaways and Where to Find Her33:42 Remarkable Women Shoutouts REBECCA BLOOM·      Instagram: @WhenWomenGetSick·      Website: WhenWomenGetSick.com GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie interviews Gabby Long, a reproductive rights advocate, mother, and healthcare storyteller. Gabby shares her journey from growing up in central Florida to becoming an outreach organiser for 'A Woman's Choice,' an independent abortion provider. She discusses her family's background in activism and her early volunteer experiences. Gabby also opens up about her personal experience with abortion, highlighting the emotional and practical challenges she faced. She speaks passionately about her work in reproductive health advocacy, the importance of community support, and the need for accessible healthcare. The discussion also covers Gabby's involvement with organisations like We Testify and the Floridians Protecting Freedoms Coalition, and she offers advice to those going through similar challenges. Gabby emphasises the importance of voting, mutual aid, and community building to drive societal change. 01:04 Meet Gabby Long02:32 Chapter one: roots03:51 Growing up and volunteering07:24 Young love and pregnancy08:03 Choosing abortion with Nana11:13 Crisis centres and clinic hurdles15:20 From patient to advocate17:49 Florida politics and access21:04 What is hyperemesis?23:59 Advice and finding community27:52 Lived experience at work32:16 Mutual aid and voting US BASED SUPPORT SERVICES·      Website: We Testify; ·      Instagram: @WeTestify UK BASED SUPPORT SERVICES·      British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS)·      National Health Service (NHS) Abortion Support GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week's episode, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Dr Alison Smith, founder of Earth and Bloom, a coaching practice supporting doctors and healthcare professionals. Dr Alison shares her journey from a GP with over 20 years of experience to a coach who blends nature, creativity, and one-to-one facilitation. She discusses her challenging childhood, her initial struggles in medicine, and how coaching transformed her life, unlocking her creativity and aligning her values. Dr Alison and Dr Connie delve into the topics of shame and anxiety in the medical profession, highlighting the need for support and open dialogue. Dr Alison also talks about her current work, including one-on-one coaching and sister circles, emphasising the importance of nature and community in healing and personal growth. 01:15 Meet Dr Alison Smith03:22 Chapter One: Childhood Worlds07:40 Path Into Medicine12:49 Anxiety and Loneliness as a GP14:21 Coaching and Nature Reset17:47 Shame and Anxiety in Medicine21:36 Thinking Environment and Listening25:40 Advice for Doctors in Shame27:52 How to Work With Alison29:59 Sister Circles and Retreats32:24 Humiliation Culture and Hope35:52 Remarkable Woman and Poem DR ALISON SMITH·      Instagram: @Earth_and_Bloom·      Website: https://www.earthandbloom.uk·      LinkedIn: Dr Alison Smith GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode of Speak Shame, we meet Kayleigh, a reproductive justice advocate, abortion storyteller, and program coordinator at Fund Texas Choice. Kayleigh discusses her personal journey from growing up in a military family and surviving domestic and sexual violence, to finding her calling in supporting Texans seeking out-of-state abortion care. She shares her own abortion experience, the ongoing struggles due to restrictive abortion laws, and the critical need for emotional and logistical support for individuals facing systemic barriers. Kayleigh highlights the transformative power of sharing abortion stories to dismantle stigma and offers insights for those seeking support or considering an abortion. 01:13 Meet Kayleigh02:01 Chapter One: Origins03:56 College and Abuse Realisation04:29 Choosing Abortion07:00 Finding Support08:40 Helping Texans Travel10:29 The Fall of Roe12:04 What Clients Face Now13:34 No Judgment Advocacy15:07 Advice and Resources17:06 Power of Storytelling18:52 Where to Get Help20:05 Bans Are Killing People21:27 Inspired by Ancestors US BASED SUPPORT SERVICES·      We Testify; Instagram: @WeTestify·      Fund Texas Choice·      Frontera Fund·      Lilith Fund·      Texas Equal Access Fund·      Exhale Pro-Voice UK BASED SUPPORT SERVICES·      British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS)·      National Health Service (NHS) Abortion Support GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week’s episode, Dr Connie sits down with Annalie Howling, a highly qualified performance coach with over 20 years of experience working with business leaders, elite athletes, and members of the armed forces, including ex-UK Special Forces. Annalie discusses her journey from a turbulent childhood to becoming a sought-after speaker, author, and EMDR certified global practitioner. She shares her insights on how shame and her people-pleasing nature have impacted her life and work. Annalie also elaborates on her book ‘Unapologetic: Unshackle Your Shame. Reclaim Your Power,’ and her personal experiences, including her breakthrough moment during a training in San Francisco and the importance of community and vulnerability. She concludes with her latest ventures, including retreats in Lisbon and France, aimed at fostering genuine connections and personal growth. 01:03 Meet Annalie Howling04:39 Violent Childhood Shame06:39 Escape Through Work07:29 Burnout Wake Up Call08:10 Coaching Breakthrough13:27 Good Girl & People Pleasing15:10 Fawn Response Explained19:27 Survivor Shame Reframed24:42 Sharing Stories Heals25:39 Love Without Secrets26:40 Freed From Shame27:12 Patriarchy And Compliance31:34 Life After Shame35:06 Inner Child Reframe37:39 Work With Annalie ANNALIE HOWLING·      Instagram: @AnnalieHowlingGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week's episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie hosts Jessy Rosales, an impassioned advocate for reproductive justice who began their journey in 2016. Jessy discusses their efforts in organizing communities and leveraging media to support reproductive justice legislation, notably leading to the passage of Senate Bill 24, which mandates abortion services in California university medical systems. Jessy shares their personal struggles with their identity and a powerful testimony of their own experience seeking an abortion as a student, which underscores the systemic barriers even in progressive states like California. Despite these challenges, Jessy's activism has continued to impact state and national policies. Listeners are encouraged to empathise, reflect on the sources of their own shame, and find strength in community. The episode wraps up with Dr Connie discussing the pivotal role of Jessy's mother in shaping their resilient spirit. 01:12 Meet Jessy Rosales03:46 Chapter One: Origins & Identity08:28 Finding advocacy work12:34 Pregnancy and decision15:02 Barriers to abortion care19:21 Second trimester and SB2422:16 Community and We Testify24:36 Living with secrecy29:36 Advice to younger self33:33 Empathy and shame unpacked41:23 Hope and movement power44:36 Remarkable woman: Mom JESSY ROSALES·      Website: WeTestify.org·      Instagram: @WeTestify UK BASED SUPPORT SERVICES·      British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS)·      National Health Service (NHS) Abortion Support GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode of Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali, Eve Ostrovskaya, a Transformational Leadership and Matrescence Coach, former Fortune 500 HR leader, and founder of Working Parent Coaching, shares her journey from growing up in post-Soviet Russia to navigating a successful career in London while raising three children. As a coach, she helps ambitious women overcome the pressures of perfectionism and the challenges of balancing career and motherhood. Eve discusses the concept of matrescence, comparing it to adolescence, and highlights the transformative leadership skills gained through parenthood. She emphasises the need for self-compassion and the importance of recognising parents as leadership assets. The episode concludes with Eve's inspiring messages on the power of kindness and the need to reshape societal views on parenting and leadership. 00:40 Meet Eve02:22 Chapter One: Childhood05:14 From Russia to London06:01 Career Drive and Early Motherhood08:52 Thirties Crunch Time13:24 Treadmill Reflection19:33 Advice for Tired Moms21:39 Rest Equals Lazy25:35 Redefining Rest and Exercise28:42 What Is Matrescence34:39 Parenthood as a Leadership Asset40:01 How to Work With Eve43:27 Kindness and Closing44:50 Remarkable Woman Inspiration EVE OSTROVSKAYA·      Website: WorkingParentCoaching.co.uk·      Instagram: @EveOstrovskaya·      LinkedIn: Eve Ostrovskaya·      Matrescence Info: Matrescence by Lucy Jones, Mama Rising by Amy Taylor-Kabbaz GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week's episode of Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali, Darleen Davies, an International Career and Mindset Coach, takes over guest hosting duties. The episode dives into the theme of dating shame, beginning with Dr Connie sharing her formative 'Good Girl' chapter. They delve into the impact of perfectionism and people-pleasing on her life and relationships, especially in the context of dating. Dr Connie opens up about how therapy helped her confront her low self-esteem and transform her dating experiences, leading to a healthier relationship with herself and eventually finding unconditional love. The conversation also emphasises the power of self-acceptance and self-compassion and ends with a tribute to her remarkable mother. 00:36 Meet Dr Connie & Guest Host, Darleen02:02 The Good Girl Chapter03:29 Perfectionism and Worth06:50 Losing Yourself to Fit In07:46 Dating as a Late Bloomer09:52 Surface Level Relationships14:56 Therapy as a Turning Point17:59 Alopecia Date Revelation22:49 Building Self Worth Foundations27:51 Dating With Confidence29:37 Coming Home With Dave33:18 Advice for People Pleasers35:36 Honouring a Remarkable Mum DARLEEN DAVIES·      Website: DarleenDaviesCoaching.com·      Instagram: @DarleenDaviesCoaching GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode, Dr Connie interviews Alison Beder Solway, a debut author and founder of ABS Fitness. Alison shares her profound journey to motherhood through surrogacy, as detailed in her memoir, The Miles We Run. Discussing her challenging health condition, HHT, Alison explains the struggles and learnings during her path to building a family. She draws powerful analogies between her resilience in surrogacy and her training for the New York City Marathon. Alison highlights the importance of hope, resilience, education, and self-advocacy, while offering encouragement to those facing similar challenges.  00:33 Meet Alison02:43 Traumatic Pregnancy and HHT Diagnosis06:48 Hearing You Can’t Carry Again09:18 Surrogacy Realities and Trust12:59 Support Systems and Silence15:51 Journals, Marathon and Meaning20:02 Shame Shifts Into Grief22:56 Talking to Kids About Surrogacy25:03 Helping Others and Legal Nuances29:13 Lessons, Resilience, Advocacy, Intuition35:49 Choosing Hope and Closing Out37:04 Where to Find Alison37:57 Remarkable Woman: Brené Brown ALISON BEDER SOLWAY·      Website: TheMilesWeRun.com GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode of Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali, Dr. Jessica Zucker, a psychologist specialising in reproductive health and author of the book 'I HAD A MISCARRIAGE: A Memoir, A Movement', shares her journey and advocacy work. Dr. Zucker discusses how her personal experience with miscarriage led to the creation of the viral #IHadAMiscarriage campaign, aiming to break the silence and reduce the stigma surrounding pregnancy loss.  She highlights the importance of sharing stories to combat shame and encourages women to find their voice, whether publicly or privately. The conversation goes on to discuss Dr. Zucker's second book, 'NORMALIZE IT: Upending the Silence, Stigma and Shame That Shapes Women's Lives', and extends to broader themes of women's mental health, vulnerability, and the healing power of storytelling. 01:11 Meet Dr Jessica Zucker02:25 Jessica’s Origin Story05:07 The Miscarriage Experience07:30 Launching the Viral Campaign11:51 How It Changed Her Work18:14 Friends, Family and Stigma21:51 Why She Wrote Normalize It26:06 Recognising Shame Signals26:57 When Silence Feels Safer29:12 Self Blame and Control Myths31:17 Therapy as a Turning Point32:36 Going Public With Trauma36:02 Vulnerability Through Sharing38:51 Ways to Tell Your Story41:27 Inspiration and Farewell DR. JESSICA ZUCKER·      Website: DrJessicaZucker.com ·      Instagram: @IHadAMiscarriage GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In the final episode of the series, Dr McClain Sampson, a professor of social work and founder of Hear Me Roar Coaching, shares her journey and mission to empower women, particularly focusing on maternal mental health. Dr Sampson talks about her challenging childhood, her academic career, the transformative impact of her unplanned pregnancy, and the development of her passion for maternal health. She emphasises the importance of mental health support for new mothers, the critical role of self-efficacy, and introduces her concept of 'Savage Self-Care'. Dr Sampson also shares her personal struggle with her teenage son's addiction and how it has shaped her approach to coaching and mental wellness. The episode concludes with practical advice for mothers dealing with similar challenges and the significance of staying connected to oneself. 00:38 Trigger Warning and Welcome01:26 Meet Dr McClain Sampson02:27 Chapter One Childhood Roots03:57 From Research to Coaching10:58 Son’s Crisis and Rehab15:32 Aftermath Grief and Shame21:29 Practical Steps to Break Shame27:40 Savage Self Care Framework33:22 How to Work With Her35:51 Key Takeaway Essential Self38:15 Remarkable Woman Tribute If you need additional support after listening to this episode you can use the links below to find more information on some places to go:·        In an emergency, dial 999 (UK only) or 911 (USA); for non-emergencies, dial 101 (UK)·        A doctor or practice nurse at your GP surgery·        A voluntary organisation such as The Samaritans (UK – call for free anytime: 116 123) or 988 Lifeline (USA – call for free anytime: 988) Dr McClain Sampson·      Website: HearMeRoarCoaching.com·      Instagram: @HearMeRoarCoaching·      LinkedIn: McClain Sampson·      YouTube: @HearMeRoarCoaching-HMR GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week’s episode, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Amanda Wakefield, a High Conflict Relationship Recovery and Resilience Life Coach based in Luxembourg. Amanda shares her personal journey, from becoming an orphan at a young age to overcoming significant challenges including cancer. She discusses the importance of hope, the impact of grief on vulnerability, and the steps she took to regain control of her life. Amanda also talks about her transition from a corporate career to coaching, her methods for helping others find their inner strength, and the importance of a supportive network. This inspiring discussion highlights the transformative power of resilience and hope. 00:00 Meet the Guest Amanda02:16 Chapter One Orphaned Young03:23 What Hopelessness Feels Like05:43 Finding Hope Again08:57 Cancer and Inner Peace10:49 Support Network and Alternatives13:08 From Survival to Coaching15:44 How to Work With Amanda17:29 There Is Always Hope19:43 Asking for Help First Time21:55 Energy Drainers and Intuition23:55 Women Who Inspire Amanda AMANDA WAKEFIELD·      Website: AmandasBeyondCoaching.com·      LinkedIn: Amanda Wakefield·      Instagram: @AmandaResilienceCoach GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week's episode, Jennifer Robertson, a fertility coach and author, shares her compelling seven-year journey through infertility, pregnancy loss, and surrogacy. She discusses the impacts of her early life experiences, the emotional and mental toll of infertility, and how she ultimately embraced self-care and mental health. Jennifer talks about her transition to becoming a fertility coach and the importance of finding community and support. She also provides insights into coping mechanisms, balancing mental health, and setting boundaries. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the power of accepting emotions and the need for personal agency. 01:09 Meet Jennifer Robertson02:18 Chapter One Backstory05:47 Seven Year Journey07:31 Infertility Triggers Insecurities10:12 Disenfranchised Grief11:43 Mental Health Shift14:36 Motherhood Wake Up Call17:25 Support and Community20:51 Double Life During Infertility24:48 Boundaries and Agency27:31 Why It Feels Isolating30:23 How to Work With Jen31:22 Embrace All Parts34:02 Remarkable Woman Inspiration JENNIFER ROBERTSON·      Website: JenniferRobertson.co·      Instagram: @MsJenniferRobertson GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week's episode, Dr Connie interviews Rebecca Cuberli, a seasoned creative leadership coach specializing in emotional intelligence. Rebecca shares her journey from corporate life to becoming a coach, detailing her wake-up call during the COVID-19 pandemic, her struggle with burnout, and her path to self-discovery and purpose. She emphasises the importance of emotional intelligence, self-acceptance, and vulnerability. Rebecca also discusses the transformative impact of her work on leaders and teams, and her vision for spreading emotional intelligence skills globally. The episode concludes with Rebecca's advice for individuals seeking to find their purpose and her acknowledgment of key influencers in her life. 01:17 Meet Rebecca Cuberli02:41 The Corporate Wake Up04:32 Toxic Culture Burnout07:09 Shame and Mindset Shift09:34 Detox and Self Discovery13:48 Curiosity to Find Purpose16:50 Vulnerability as Leadership18:13 Transformational Coaching Wins22:36 The Dandelion Effect Dream25:04 Tools to Tackle Shame29:12 How to Work With Rebecca31:50 Remarkable Women Who Inspire REBECCA CUBERLI·      Website: RebeccaCuberli.com·      LinkedIn: Rebecca Cuberli·      Instagram: @RebeccaCuberliCoach GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this week's episode, holistic counsellor and root cause therapist, Lorene Roberts, joins the discussion to share her impactful journey of overcoming life's most challenging transitions, including an emotionally and sexually abusive marriage. Lorene offers insight into how she turned her painful experiences into a source of strength and guidance for other women. She discusses her latest work, including a new course on emotional freedom, and reflects on the importance of self-discovery and the lessons learned from her past. Lorene is candid about her struggles and triumphs, emphasising the necessity of resilience, determination, and self-belief in the path to healing. 00:37 Meet Lorene03:33 Childhood Lessons and Needs04:45 Cruelty Behind Closed Doors06:39 Recognising Rape and Consent08:15 Owning the Pattern09:30 Healing Layers and Root Cause11:30 Tony Robbins Turning Point15:29 Choosing Not to Be Bitter17:27 Rock Bottom Wakeup Call17:49 Choosing Self Development20:39 Rebuilding Self Worth22:17 Solo Travel Breakthrough25:41 Becoming A Therapist28:19 Self Belief Takeaways29:07 Advice To Younger Self30:26 How To Work With Lorene32:57 Remarkable Women Inspirations If you need additional support after listening to this episode you can use the links below to find more information on some places to go:·        In an emergency, dial 999; for non-emergencies, dial 101 (UK only)·        Find your nearest NHS Sexual Assault Referral Centre (England only)·        Find an NHS Talking Therapy service near you (England only)·        A doctor or practice nurse at your GP surgery·        A voluntary organisation such as Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, or Victim Support LORENE ROBERTS·      Website: LoreneRoberts.com·      Facebook: @LoreneRoberts·      LinkedIn: Lorene Roberts·      YouTube: @LoreneRoberts GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Jeannette Hounjet, a certified coach, Reiki Master, and advocate for women's recovery. The discussion centres on the journey to self-acceptance and authenticity. Jeannette shares her story of overcoming feelings of inadequacy and the quest for genuine self-love. They delve into practical steps for transforming negative self-talk, the importance of finding personal support systems, and the continuous nature of self-improvement. Through this inspiring conversation, listeners are encouraged to begin their own journeys toward healing and unshakable self-love. 01:18 Meet Jeannette Hounjet02:16 Chapter One Starts Now03:20 The Missing Piece Authenticity05:48 People Pleasing and Shame06:58 Choosing the Self Journey09:52 Louise Hay and Self Love15:35 Finding Voice and Support20:01 From Surviving to Thriving23:56 Navigating Unsupportive Circles27:43 Self Talk and Affirmations34:30 Remarkable Woman and Resources JEANNETTE HOUNJET SOCIAL MEDIA·      Instagram: @NowShesLiving·      LinkedIn: Jeannette Hounjet GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali talks with Nina de Sausmarez, a self-belief and empowerment coach. Nina shares her personal story of overcoming a challenging and traumatic past marked by drug use, running away from home, and experiencing shame from her difficult upbringing. The discussion delves into Nina's patterns of seeking validation and safety, her experiences of self-sabotage, and the profound realisation of her need for radical responsibility. Nina's journey to self-awareness, self-acceptance, and ultimately, empowerment through therapy and introspection is explored. The episode emphasises the importance of doing the work to heal from shame and using personal transformation to help others. In the end, Dr Connie and Nina discuss the impact of sharing these stories to inspire hope and resilience in others. 01:14 Meet Nina de Sausmarez01:38 Chapter One The Runaway03:32 Volatile Childhood Roots05:34 Numbing the Void08:27 Leaving Home at Sixteen13:32 Caught Stealing and Shame16:02 Motherhood and Self Sabotage25:07 Rock Bottom Choice26:16 Question Your Reality28:38 Therapy And Safety30:39 Radical Responsibility34:42 Becoming A Coach40:42 Find Nina Online41:36 Message To Younger Self43:08 Inspired By Grandma45:20 Shame In The Light NINA DE SAUSMAREZ SOCIAL MEDIA·      Instagram: @NinadeSausmarez·      Facebook: @NinadeSausmarez·      LinkedIn: Nina de Sausmarez·      Website: NinadeSausmarez.com GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

On this episode of Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali, I’m joined by Doreen Moraa Moracha, a phenomenal woman who shares her life story of living with HIV for 32 years. In a deep and inspirational conversation, Doreen recounts being diagnosed at 13, her journey through self-acceptance, and her role as an HIV/AIDS advocate. She discusses the stigma, challenges, and triumphs she has faced, including the impact on her mental health, dating life, and the importance of community support. Doreen also offers practical advice for those living with HIV and emphasizes the power of acceptance and self-love in overcoming life’s adversities. 01:04 Meet Doreen Moraa02:14 Chapter One Diagnosis03:47 Finding Her Voice05:22 First Public Disclosure11:43 Keeping It Secret14:18 Denial Cure Search16:22 Back On Treatment19:35 Dating With HIV23:00 PrEP and U Equals U23:53 Dating and Disclosure25:22 Going Public Online30:50 Acceptance and Support35:07 ARVs Explained37:24 Prevention Takeaways39:51 Message to Younger Self40:32 Closing and Where to FollowSEXUAL HEALTH RESOURCES·      Find a sexual health clinic near me (UK only)·      Home STI Testing – Sexual Health London·      Terrence Higgins Trust DOREEN MORAA MORACHA SOCIAL MEDIA·      Instagram: @yes_I_have_HIV·      YouTube: @IAmABeautifulStory·      Facebook: @DoreenMoraaMoracha·      TikTok: @yes_I_have_HIV·      LinkedIn: Doreen Moraa GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali interviews Nichole Banks, a divorce recovery coach and host of The Nichole Banks Podcast. Nichole shares her powerful journey from enduring two divorces, facing infidelity, and struggling with severe self-doubt, to eventually being incarcerated for embezzlement. After spending time in prison, Nichole reemerged into society with an air of shame but managed to transform her life through self-prioritization, positive affirmations, and rebuilding her self-esteem. Nichole also discusses finding enduring love and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and authentic living. The conversation is filled with actionable insights and inspiring messages for anyone dealing with similar adversities. 01:20 Meet Nichole Banks02:12 A Book Born From Divorce08:06 Rock Bottom and Embezzlement10:20 Sentenced to Prison12:27 Life Inside and Programs14:46 Release and Crushing Shame16:48 Rebuilding Mindset22:35 Journaling and Daily Tools29:23 Owning Your Worth31:04 Wellbeing and Boundaries33:54 Finding Love Again34:59 Building Trust with Jeff43:00 Date Yourself First49:34 Inspired by Oprah52:28 Where to Find Nichole NICHOLE BANKS RESOURCESInstagram: @msnicholebanks  The Nichole Banks WebsiteThe Nichole Banks PodcastAre You Ready to Find Love Again? GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

In this episode of Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali, Dr Connie, a medical doctor, life coach, and survivor of sexual violence, shares her powerful story of overcoming shame and finding strength through vulnerability. Interviewed by her long-time friend and career change coach, Darleen Davies, Dr Connie recounts being silenced by shame for several years after being raped, and her path to healing through therapy and support from loved ones. The discussion highlights the importance of connection, sharing one's story with someone that you trust, and the impact of hearing Dr Christine Blasey Ford speak her truth about being sexually assaulted as a teenager. Dr Connie's mission is to share inspiring stories of women who have faced and overcome adversity, so that others may find strength, connection, and hope in their own journeys, and so that shame itself loses its power.  00:00 Welcome and Trigger Warning01:37 Meet the Guest Host02:56 Why Share This Now04:15 The Assault in 201506:05 Shame and Staying Silent13:32 Reporting to Police15:42 Life Starts Unraveling18:12 Therapy Search and Breakthrough23:46 Telling Friends and Finding Connection26:05 Opening Up to Family29:57 Why I Stayed Silent32:44 Telling Dad and Brother34:41 Shame Losing Power38:39 Purpose Through Sharing48:50 Mission and Self Worth53:28 Remarkable Woman Tribute55:08 Final Resources and Goodbye If you need additional support after listening to this episode you can use the links below to find more information on some places to go:In an emergency, dial 999; for non-emergencies, dial 101 (UK only)Find your nearest NHS Sexual Assault Referral Centre (England only)Find an NHS Talking Therapy service near you (England only)A doctor or practice nurse at your GP surgeryA voluntary organisation such as Rape Crisis, Women’s Aid, or Victim SupportGET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.

Hello Remarkable Woman, have you ever been silenced by shame? Have you ever believed that you’re not enough? Do you believe that you're unworthy of love or belonging? Are these beliefs holding you back in your personal or professional life? If this sounds like you, then you’re in the right place. Speak Shame with me, Dr Connie Kerali, - medical doctor, life coach & survivor of sexual violence - is a collection of expert insights on how to rediscover your self-worth, as well as inspiring conversations with remarkable women who have faced and overcome adversity. By sharing their stories, my hope is that you may find strength, connection, and hope in your own journey, and that shame itself loses its power. So, sit back, relax, and don't forget to like and subscribe to the show.Speak Shame with Dr Connie Kerali will launch on Thursday 2nd January 2025.In the meantime:Read Speak Shame: The Blog.Learn more about Dr Connie Kerali's Mission 100K to share over 100,000 inspiring stories of women who have faced and overcome adversity, so that others may find strength, connection, and hope in their own journeys, and so that shame itself loses its power.GET IN TOUCHJoin the community:@DrConnieKerali on InstagramSign up for my Born Worthy newsletter to get your weekly dose of empowerment.Are you ready to break free from the shame that keeps you stuck? My free, on-demand, Shame Resilience Workshop is for Remarkable Women who are tired of hiding parts of themselves and are ready to step into a life of authenticity, courage, & self-compassion.Hello Remarkable Woman, do you know your story matters but don't know how to tell it yet? Join The Storytellers Club, a free, private community hub to discover the power hidden in your story through creativity & connection.