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.

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.

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....

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.

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.

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

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

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.

Grab your tea (or wine, we don’t judge) and tune in for an easy listen that’ll make you smile.

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.

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

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.

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 

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 divorce
• Maintaining healthy relationships with adult children
• Rebuilding identity after a long-term relationship
• The importance of support and self-care
• Learning 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

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 

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.me
Email: joanna@soitsnotjust.me (for guest inquiries)

#SoItsNotJustMe #WeightLossJourney #Mounjaro #WeightLossSupport #BodyImage #MentalHealthMatters #GLP1 #MounjaroJourney #HealthNotShame #PodcastForWomen #RealTalkPodcast #WeightLossMedication #StigmaFree #WellnessPodcast #SelfWorth #HealthOnMyTerms

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

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.

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

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 confetti

Whether 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

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 overwhelming

Whether 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

We talk about:

What it’s really like working in the police force

How she balances high-pressure shifts with family life

The mental load of being the “strong one”

Why chasing waterfalls and spending time in nature has become her go-to for peace

The surprising moments that have shaped her life and mindset

Whether 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.

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 expectations

Why choosing child-free doesn’t mean choosing loneliness

The joy of saying “no thanks” to the norm

Finding fulfillment in other relationships

Protecting 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 

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 control
• Using alcohol as self-medication
• The road to sobriety and what recovery looks like
• Starting a support group (S62) and the importance of community
• The 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.

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. 💛

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!

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!

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 transition

Reactions from friends and family

Coping with being misgendered

Mental health and support systems

Hopes for the future as a trans man

🧠 You're not alone.
🫶 Let's talk about it.

• Joanna Wood - Host
• Kelsey - Guest