The Locked up Living Podcast: Surviving and thriving in prisons and other challenging environments

keywords child abuse, whistleblower, child protection, exploitation, Voice for the Voiceless, systemic issues, care homes, ritual abuse, societal implications, justice  takeaways Jon Wedger is a retired police detective and whistleblower. He specialized in child abuse investigations, focusing on children from care homes. Jon's investigations revealed systemic issues in child protection. He faced significant pushback from the police for his findings. The care system often fails to protect vulnerable children from exploitation. Jon founded Voice for the Voiceless to give a platform to abuse survivors. He has encountered numerous cases of ritual abuse during his work. Child abuse is a pervasive issue that transcends social classes. Jon emphasizes the need for a dedicated focus on child protection in policing. His personal journey has been marked by trauma and resilience.  summary In this conversation Naomi Murphy and David Jones meet Jon Wedger, a retired police detective and whistleblower. He shares his harrowing experiences investigating child abuse within the care system, the systemic failures in child protection, the challenges he faced as a whistleblower, and the formation of his campaign, Voice for the Voiceless. Jon highlights the prevalence of exploitation and ritual abuse, emphasizing the need for societal change and a dedicated focus on child protection. His personal journey is marked by trauma, resilience, and a commitment to giving a voice to the voiceless. https://jonwedger.org/blogs/b/give-a-voice-to-the-voiceless  sound bites ""I was told to shut up about my findings."" ""Child abuse is a rotting society."" ""Child abuse knows no boundaries.""   Chapters (Timings approx.) 00:00 The Voice for the Voiceless: Introduction to Jon Wedger 05:26 The System's Failures: Cover-Ups and Consequences 13:13 The Fight Against Institutional Abuse: A Personal Account 19:57 Voice for the Voiceless: Raising Awareness and Advocacy 27:18 The Intersection of Power, Abuse, and Society 36:26 The Disparity in Justice 47:14 The Impact of Advocacy on Identity

keywords child abuse, whistleblower, child protection, exploitation, Voice for the Voiceless, systemic issues, care homes, ritual abuse, societal implications, justice  takeaways Jon Wedger is a retired police detective and whistleblower. He specialized in child abuse investigations, focusing on children from care homes. Jon's investigations revealed systemic issues in child protection. He faced significant pushback from the police for his findings. The care system often fails to protect vulnerable children from exploitation. Jon founded Voice for the Voiceless to give a platform to abuse survivors. He has encountered numerous cases of ritual abuse during his work. Child abuse is a pervasive issue that transcends social classes. Jon emphasizes the need for a dedicated focus on child protection in policing. His personal journey has been marked by trauma and resilience.  summary In this conversation Naomi Murphy and David Jones meet Jon Wedger, a retired police detective and whistleblower. He shares his harrowing experiences investigating child abuse within the care system, the systemic failures in child protection, the challenges he faced as a whistleblower, and the formation of his campaign, Voice for the Voiceless. Jon highlights the prevalence of exploitation and ritual abuse, emphasizing the need for societal change and a dedicated focus on child protection. His personal journey is marked by trauma, resilience, and a commitment to giving a voice to the voiceless. https://jonwedger.org/blogs/b/give-a-voice-to-the-voiceless  sound bites ""I was told to shut up about my findings."" ""Child abuse is a rotting society."" ""Child abuse knows no boundaries.""   Chapters (Timings approx.) 00:00 The Voice for the Voiceless: Introduction to Jon Wedger 05:26 The System's Failures: Cover-Ups and Consequences 13:13 The Fight Against Institutional Abuse: A Personal Account 19:57 Voice for the Voiceless: Raising Awareness and Advocacy 27:18 The Intersection of Power, Abuse, and Society 36:26 The Disparity in Justice 47:14 The Impact of Advocacy on Identity

Summary In this conversation Naomi Murphy and David Jones explore the nature of leadership, emotional intelligence, and the impact of childhood experiences on leadership styles. Piers Cross and Chris Braitch share insights on how leadership can be developed, the importance of compassion, and the societal implications of leadership behaviors.  Here is a link to their upcoming online workshop, https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/leadership-under-pressure-how-you-can-manage-pressure-better-tickets-1982772564114?aff=oddtdtcreator   And to their website: https://compassionateleadersglobal.com/    keywords Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, Compassionate Leadership, Childhood Trauma, Organizational Culture, Leadership Training, Management vs Leadership, Wounded Leaders, Societal Impact, Personal Development.   key  topics Leadership development and the nature vs nurture debate The impact of childhood trauma and adverse experiences on leadership styles The importance of emotional intelligence and compassion in leadership Differences between management and leadership The societal and organizational implications of leadership behaviors  sound bites "Leaders aren't just born, they are made." "Leadership is a teachable skill set." "Business success depends on compassionate leadership." Chapters 00:00 The Nature of Leadership: Born or Made? 04:45 Learning Leadership Through Osmosis 08:48 The Impact of Childhood on Leadership Styles 11:37 Distinguishing Leadership from Management 18:14 Institutional Experiences and Leadership Development 24:32 Consequences of Suppressing Emotions in Leadership 24:54 The Fall of a Leader: Personal Struggles and Realizations 27:04 The Command and Control Leadership Style: Pros and Cons 29:57 Compassion in Leadership: A Necessary Shift 32:26 Pressure Reveals True Leadership: The Impact of Stress 38:44 The Dark Side of Leadership: Accountability and Vulnerability 43:09 Creating Compassionate Leaders: A New Approach to Leadership Development 48:57 Ten second outro video.mp4   Chris Braitch has a mission to move himself and the world around him towards connection and compassion. He works as an emotional health coach, leadership coach with Compassionate Leaders Global, and as a founding director of Seen & Heard, a not-for-profit offering wellbeing support to past and present pupils of the private school system, many of whom have experienced institutional abuse and neglect. After two decades in sales, marketing, and management for global consumer goods companies, Chris’s life was upended by unresolved childhood trauma, the grief of losing his young son and mother, and addiction, leading to a breakdown in 2021. Through coaching, men’s groups, Emotional Freedom Technique, and a spiritual awakening, he rebuilt his life. Now addiction-free, he has found his purpose, transformed his parenting, and is committed to serving others with  compassion and authenticity. https://seenheard.org.uk/ "Piers Cross is an author, coach, and documentary producer specialising in boarding school trauma. He is also the founder of Compassionate Leaders Global, an organisation dedicated to developing emotionally intelligent, compassionate leaders for the future. https://www.piers-cross.com/  resources Compassionate Leaders Global - https://compassionateleaders.global Emma Seppälä - Stanford Professor on Stress and Leadership - https://www.stanford.edu Doris Kearns Goodwin - Leadership and Emotional Intelligence - https://www.amazon.com Steven Spielberg's Lincoln Movie - https://www.youtube.com The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk - https://www.amazon.com/The-Body-Keeps-Score-Psychiatry/dp/0143127748

Summary In this conversation Naomi Murphy and David Jones explore the nature of leadership, emotional intelligence, and the impact of childhood experiences on leadership styles. Piers Cross and Chris Braitch share insights on how leadership can be developed, the importance of compassion, and the societal implications of leadership behaviors.  Here is a link to their upcoming online workshop, https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/leadership-under-pressure-how-you-can-manage-pressure-better-tickets-1982772564114?aff=oddtdtcreator   And to their website: https://compassionateleadersglobal.com/  keywords Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, Compassionate Leadership, Childhood Trauma, Organizational Culture, Leadership Training, Management vs Leadership, Wounded Leaders, Societal Impact, Personal Development.   key  topics Leadership development and the nature vs nurture debate The impact of childhood trauma and adverse experiences on leadership styles The importance of emotional intelligence and compassion in leadership Differences between management and leadership The societal and organizational implications of leadership behaviors  sound bites "Leaders aren't just born, they are made." "Leadership is a teachable skill set." "Business success depends on compassionate leadership." Chapters 00:00 The Nature of Leadership: Born or Made? 04:45 Learning Leadership Through Osmosis 08:48 The Impact of Childhood on Leadership Styles 11:37 Distinguishing Leadership from Management 18:14 Institutional Experiences and Leadership Development 24:32 Consequences of Suppressing Emotions in Leadership 24:54 The Fall of a Leader: Personal Struggles and Realizations 27:04 The Command and Control Leadership Style: Pros and Cons 29:57 Compassion in Leadership: A Necessary Shift 32:26 Pressure Reveals True Leadership: The Impact of Stress 38:44 The Dark Side of Leadership: Accountability and Vulnerability 43:09 Creating Compassionate Leaders: A New Approach to Leadership Development 48:57 Ten second outro video.mp4   Chris Braitch has a mission to move himself and the world around him towards connection and compassion. He works as an emotional health coach, leadership coach with Compassionate Leaders Global, and as a founding director of Seen & Heard, a not-for-profit offering wellbeing support to past and present pupils of the private school system, many of whom have experienced institutional abuse and neglect. After two decades in sales, marketing, and management for global consumer goods companies, Chris’s life was upended by unresolved childhood trauma, the grief of losing his young son and mother, and addiction, leading to a breakdown in 2021. Through coaching, men’s groups, Emotional Freedom Technique, and a spiritual awakening, he rebuilt his life. Now addiction-free, he has found his purpose, transformed his parenting, and is committed to serving others with  compassion and authenticity. https://seenheard.org.uk/ "Piers Cross is an author, coach, and documentary producer specialising in boarding school trauma. He is also the founder of Compassionate Leaders Global, an organisation dedicated to developing emotionally intelligent, compassionate leaders for the future. https://www.piers-cross.com/  resources Compassionate Leaders Global - https://compassionateleaders.global Emma Seppälä - Stanford Professor on Stress and Leadership - https://www.stanford.edu Doris Kearns Goodwin - Leadership and Emotional Intelligence - https://www.amazon.com Steven Spielberg's Lincoln Movie - https://www.youtube.com The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk - https://www.amazon.com/The-Body-Keeps-Score-Psychiatry/dp/0143127748

  In this episode David and Naomi meet with Lawrence Collins-Willis who shares his disturbing personal story of childhood abuse, recovery, and the ongoing journey to heal from trauma. His openness offers insight into the complex process of memory recovery and the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and professional support. Key Topics The impact of adopting children later in life and personal childhood histories Recognizing triggers and embodying emotional regulation The role of therapy, including EMDR and somatic approaches, in trauma recovery Memory recovery: how traumatic memories emerge piecemeal and the disorientation involved Physical manifestations of trauma: scars, surgeries, and bodily effects The importance of self-compassion and patience during healing Challenging stigma around male trauma and abuse Supporting others who experience or process trauma The importance of trauma-informed therapy and support options for men Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Lawrence’s story and its significance 02:01 - Pre-adoption life: grounding and functioning well 04:38 - Experiencing and recognizing emotional triggers during parenting 06:26 - Professional interventions and the importance of therapy 08:13 - The breakthrough moment in therapy and uncovering repressed memories 11:13 - The harsh reality of childhood abuse and the process of memory recovery 13:13 - The details of traumatic events, betrayal, and ongoing impact 16:25 - The body's physical response: scars, surgeries, and bodily trauma 19:44 - The emotional toll and identity shifts following trauma 22:56 - The importance of support systems and handling suicidal thoughts 28:38 - Disorientation of memory flashing back and sensory triggers 30:46 - The somatic effects of trauma on the body and physical health 33:08 - How trauma influences identity and self-image 36:49 - Managing triggers and feeling safer in everyday life 38:24 - The lasting impact of trauma and ongoing vulnerability 42:01 - The challenges of feeling safe and concerns about future behavior 43:33 - Addressing fears around abuse and the importance of trauma-informed support 45:43 - Navigating the landscape of mental health support and barriers to access 47:19 - The dark moments: suicidal ideation and seeking help 50:06 - Breaking down stigma and supporting men's mental health and trauma recovery 52:14 - Advice for survivors: emotions, anger, and self-kindness 54:37 - Contemporary trauma therapy approaches and their effectiveness 55:48 - Final reflections: acceptance and the ongoing journey of healing

In this episode David and Naomi meet with Lawrence Collins-Willis who shares his disturbing personal story of childhood abuse, recovery, and the ongoing journey to heal from trauma. His openness offers insight into the complex process of memory recovery and the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and professional support. Key Topics The impact of adopting children later in life and personal childhood histories Recognizing triggers and embodying emotional regulation The role of therapy, including EMDR and somatic approaches, in trauma recovery Memory recovery: how traumatic memories emerge piecemeal and the disorientation involved Physical manifestations of trauma: scars, surgeries, and bodily effects The importance of self-compassion and patience during healing Challenging stigma around male trauma and abuse Supporting others who experience or process trauma The importance of trauma-informed therapy and support options for men Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to Lawrence’s story and its significance 02:01 - Pre-adoption life: grounding and functioning well 04:38 - Experiencing and recognizing emotional triggers during parenting 06:26 - Professional interventions and the importance of therapy 08:13 - The breakthrough moment in therapy and uncovering repressed memories 11:13 - The harsh reality of childhood abuse and the process of memory recovery 13:13 - The details of traumatic events, betrayal, and ongoing impact 16:25 - The body's physical response: scars, surgeries, and bodily trauma 19:44 - The emotional toll and identity shifts following trauma 22:56 - The importance of support systems and handling suicidal thoughts 28:38 - Disorientation of memory flashing back and sensory triggers 30:46 - The somatic effects of trauma on the body and physical health 33:08 - How trauma influences identity and self-image 36:49 - Managing triggers and feeling safer in everyday life 38:24 - The lasting impact of trauma and ongoing vulnerability 42:01 - The challenges of feeling safe and concerns about future behavior 43:33 - Addressing fears around abuse and the importance of trauma-informed support 45:43 - Navigating the landscape of mental health support and barriers to access 47:19 - The dark moments: suicidal ideation and seeking help 50:06 - Breaking down stigma and supporting men's mental health and trauma recovery 52:14 - Advice for survivors: emotions, anger, and self-kindness 54:37 - Contemporary trauma therapy approaches and their effectiveness 55:48 - Final reflections: acceptance and the ongoing journey of healing

Joining us today is Crispin Thorold - a British-Canadian international communications specialist and former BBC foreign correspondent who has spent the past 25 years specialising mainly on conflicts, post-conflict situations and crisis areas. He has worked in more than 40 countries, including six war zones and multiple post-conflict regions. As a BBC correspondent Crispin was based in Northern Ireland, India, Afghanistan and the Middle East. As a comms leader he has worked closely with survivors of terrorism, torture and war. Now retraining as a psychotherapist and psychologist, he plans to build on his previous experience, to work with men who have been affected by conflict. His interest areas include trauma and addictions.   keywords journalism, crisis reporting, mental health, trauma, psychotherapy, conflict, emotional toll, news consumption, storytelling, human experience  summary Crispin Thorold, a former foreign correspondent now training as a psychotherapist, talks about his progress through crisis reporting, the emotional toll it takes, and the transition to understanding trauma from a psychological perspective. He discusses the challenges of reporting in conflict zones, the responsibility felt towards the affected populations, and the importance of mental health awareness in journalism. The conversation also touches on the impact of news consumption on society and the need for a more thoughtful approach to engaging with current events.  takeaways Crispin's journey into journalism was not planned but evolved from his interests. His background in history and international relations shaped his career. The emotional connection to the places and people he reported on was profound. Journalists often feel a responsibility to tell the stories of those suffering. The cycle of reporting can be mentally exhausting and challenging. Crispin highlights the long-lasting mental scars from war reporting. He emphasizes the importance of self-care for journalists. Transitioning to psychotherapy has allowed him to explore trauma more deeply. There is a growing awareness of mental health issues in journalism. Crispin advocates for a more thoughtful approach to news consumption.    sound bites "You feel a real responsibility." "The mental scars that it can leave on you." "I think there's a lot more awareness now." Chapters (timings approx.) 00:00 Introduction to Crispin Thorold's Journey 02:32 The Path to Foreign Correspondence 05:23 Understanding Conflict Through Personal History 08:03 The Responsibility of Reporting 11:25 Challenges in War Reporting 15:52 The Emotional Toll of Conflict Reporting 19:50 The Human Element in Journalism 23:59 Trauma and Dissociation in Journalists 25:28 Experiencing Trauma in War Zones 27:40 Coping Mechanisms and Personal Healing 30:23 Transitioning from Journalism to Advocacy 33:11 The Impact of Trauma on Journalistic Work 35:35 Organizational Support for Journalists 38:59 The Need for Accessible Mental Health Resources 40:51 Rethinking News Consumption 48:25 Concluding Thoughts on Trauma and Healing 49:16 Ten second outro video.

Joining us today is Crispin Thorold - a British-Canadian international communications specialist and former BBC foreign correspondent who has spent the past 25 years specialising mainly on conflicts, post-conflict situations and crisis areas. He has worked in more than 40 countries, including six war zones and multiple post-conflict regions. As a BBC correspondent Crispin was based in Northern Ireland, India, Afghanistan and the Middle East. As a communications leader he has worked closely with survivors of terrorism, torture and war. Now retraining as a psychotherapist and psychologist, he plans to build on his previous experience, to work with men who have been affected by conflict. His interest areas include trauma and addictions.   keywords journalism, crisis reporting, mental health, trauma, psychotherapy, conflict, emotional toll, news consumption, storytelling, human experience  summary Crispin Thorold, a former foreign correspondent now training as a psychotherapist, talks about his progress through crisis reporting, the emotional toll it takes, and the transition to understanding trauma from a psychological perspective. He discusses the challenges of reporting in conflict zones, the responsibility felt towards the affected populations, and the importance of mental health awareness in journalism. The conversation also touches on the impact of news consumption on society and the need for a more thoughtful approach to engaging with current events.  takeaways Crispin's journey into journalism was not planned but evolved from his interests. His background in history and international relations shaped his career. The emotional connection to the places and people he reported on was profound. Journalists often feel a responsibility to tell the stories of those suffering. The cycle of reporting can be mentally exhausting and challenging. Crispin highlights the long-lasting mental scars from war reporting. He emphasizes the importance of self-care for journalists. Transitioning to psychotherapy has allowed him to explore trauma more deeply. There is a growing awareness of mental health issues in journalism. Crispin advocates for a more thoughtful approach to news consumption.   sound bites "You feel a real responsibility." "The mental scars that it can leave on you." "I think there's a lot more awareness now." Chapters (timings approx.) 00:00 Introduction to Crispin Thorold's Journey 02:32 The Path to Foreign Correspondence 05:23 Understanding Conflict Through Personal History 08:03 The Responsibility of Reporting 11:25 Challenges in War Reporting 15:52 The Emotional Toll of Conflict Reporting 19:50 The Human Element in Journalism 23:59 Trauma and Dissociation in Journalists 25:28 Experiencing Trauma in War Zones 27:40 Coping Mechanisms and Personal Healing 30:23 Transitioning from Journalism to Advocacy 33:11 The Impact of Trauma on Journalistic Work 35:35 Organizational Support for Journalists 38:59 The Need for Accessible Mental Health Resources 40:51 Rethinking News Consumption 48:25 Concluding Thoughts on Trauma and Healing 49:16 Ten second outro video.

Summary In this conversation, Kate Eves shares her extensive experience in researching and investigating deaths in custody, discussing the complexities and challenges faced by professionals in this field. She highlights the importance of understanding the human stories behind the statistics, the impact of media narratives on public perception, and the need for transparency and accountability in death investigations. The discussion also touches on the emotional toll of this work, the inquest process, and the lessons that can be learned from past investigations. Keywords death, custody, investigations, mental health, media narratives, transparency, accountability, inquests, criminal justice, coping mechanisms Bio: Kate has over 25 years’ experience of conducting research, inspections and investigations within custodial environments, in the UK and the US. Kate has worked with HM Inspectorate of Prisons, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman, the Forum for Preventing Deaths in Custody and HM Prison Service, where she led on the national strategy for reducing violence in custody. Kate has also worked with numerous prison and jail systems in the United States to improve detention conditions and increase accountability following deaths and serious violence. Kate recently chaired the UK government's first statutory inquiry into mistreatment in immigration detention, during which she found evidence of abuse contrary to international human rights legislation. She is a member of the Independent Advisory Panel on Deaths in Custody, a group of experts who advise the UK government on the prevention of deaths in all forms of state custody. Takeaways Kate Eves transitioned from law to criminology, focusing on the aftermath of criminal cases. Investigating deaths in custody requires a balance of objectivity and empathy. The emotional impact of reviewing traumatic cases can be significant for professionals. Media narratives shape public understanding of policing-related deaths. Transparency in death investigations is crucial for accountability. Inquests serve as a fact-finding exercise but can be intimidating for families. Blame and shame can complicate the inquest process. Learning from past investigations is often hindered by systemic issues. Coping mechanisms are essential for professionals in high-stress roles. Death is the ultimate leveller, affecting everyone regardless of status.  sound bites "I think it is really easy to kind of forget that." "The ultimate leveler, isn't it?" "You just have to be very aware of it." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kate Eves and Her Career 08:00 Exploring Policing Related Deaths 15:48 Investigating Deaths in Custody 20:45 Challenges in Death Investigation 23:57 The Inquest Process and Its Emotional Toll 26:42 Understanding Inquests and Their Challenges 30:18 The Role of Blame and Shame in Inquests 33:49 Learning from Inquests: Challenges and Opportunities 35:28 Confronting Death: Perspectives and Insights 40:40 Finding Hope in Difficult Work 45:26 Coping with Moral Injury in Challenging Environments

Summary In this conversation, Kate Eves shares her extensive experience in researching and investigating deaths in custody, discussing the complexities and challenges faced by professionals in this field. She highlights the importance of understanding the human stories behind the statistics, the impact of media narratives on public perception, and the need for transparency and accountability in death investigations. The discussion also touches on the emotional toll of this work, the inquest process, and the lessons that can be learned from past investigations. Keywords death, custody, investigations, mental health, media narratives, transparency, accountability, inquests, criminal justice, coping mechanisms Bio: Kate has over 25 years’ experience of conducting research, inspections and investigations within custodial environments, in the UK and the US. Kate has worked with HM Inspectorate of Prisons, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman, the Forum for Preventing Deaths in Custody and HM Prison Service, where she led on the national strategy for reducing violence in custody. Kate has also worked with numerous prison and jail systems in the United States to improve detention conditions and increase accountability following deaths and serious violence. Kate recently chaired the UK government's first statutory inquiry into mistreatment in immigration detention, during which she found evidence of abuse contrary to international human rights legislation. She is a member of the Independent Advisory Panel on Deaths in Custody, a group of experts who advise the UK government on the prevention of deaths in all forms of state custody. Takeaways Kate Eves transitioned from law to criminology, focusing on the aftermath of criminal cases. Investigating deaths in custody requires a balance of objectivity and empathy. The emotional impact of reviewing traumatic cases can be significant for professionals. Media narratives shape public understanding of policing-related deaths. Transparency in death investigations is crucial for accountability. Inquests serve as a fact-finding exercise but can be intimidating for families. Blame and shame can complicate the inquest process. Learning from past investigations is often hindered by systemic issues. Coping mechanisms are essential for professionals in high-stress roles. Death is the ultimate leveller, affecting everyone regardless of status.  sound bites "I think it is really easy to kind of forget that." "The ultimate leveler, isn't it?" "You just have to be very aware of it." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kate Eves and Her Career 08:00 Exploring Policing Related Deaths 15:48 Investigating Deaths in Custody 20:45 Challenges in Death Investigation 23:57 The Inquest Process and Its Emotional Toll 26:42 Understanding Inquests and Their Challenges 30:18 The Role of Blame and Shame in Inquests 33:49 Learning from Inquests: Challenges and Opportunities 35:28 Confronting Death: Perspectives and Insights 40:40 Finding Hope in Difficult Work 45:26 Coping with Moral Injury in Challenging Environments

Keywords childhood trauma, MDMA therapy, sexual abuse, repressed memories, family dynamics, forgiveness, healing, survivor stories, therapy, mental health Summary In this conversation, Daniel shares his profound journey of healing from childhood trauma and sexual abuse. He discusses the complexities of uncovering repressed memories, the role of MDMA therapy in his recovery, and the challenges he faced in disclosing his experiences to his family. Daniel emphasizes the importance of understanding grooming and conditioning, the struggle with forgiveness, and the significance of sharing one's story as a means of reclaiming dignity and sovereignty. He also offers valuable insights for therapists working with survivors of trauma, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding in the healing process. Takeaways Daniel's journey began with a struggle against self-hatred and trauma. MDMA therapy played a crucial role in uncovering repressed memories. The process of reliving trauma can be both painful and transformative. Family dynamics can complicate the disclosure of abuse. Grooming and conditioning are key factors in understanding abuse. Forgiveness is a complex and personal journey for survivors. Setting boundaries is essential for healing and self-preservation. Support networks are vital for survivors of trauma. Sharing one's story can be empowering and healing. Therapists should approach survivors with compassion and understanding.   Chapters (timings approx) 00:00 Introduction to Daniel's Journey 01:46 Uncovering Childhood Trauma 05:11 The Role of MDMA Therapy 08:37 The Impact of Repressed Memories 12:25 Family Dynamics and Disclosure 17:33 Understanding Grooming and Conditioning 21:48 The Complexity of Forgiveness 26:13 Advice for Therapists Working with Survivors 30:18 Finding Healing and Support 42:50 The Power of Sharing Your Story

Keywords childhood trauma, MDMA therapy, sexual abuse, repressed memories, family dynamics, forgiveness, healing, survivor stories, therapy, mental health Summary In this conversation, Daniel shares his profound journey of healing from childhood trauma and sexual abuse. He discusses the complexities of uncovering repressed memories, the role of MDMA therapy in his recovery, and the challenges he faced in disclosing his experiences to his family. Daniel emphasizes the importance of understanding grooming and conditioning, the struggle with forgiveness, and the significance of sharing one's story as a means of reclaiming dignity and sovereignty. He also offers valuable insights for therapists working with survivors of trauma, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding in the healing process. Takeaways Daniel's journey began with a struggle against self-hatred and trauma. MDMA therapy played a crucial role in uncovering repressed memories. The process of reliving trauma can be both painful and transformative. Family dynamics can complicate the disclosure of abuse. Grooming and conditioning are key factors in understanding abuse. Forgiveness is a complex and personal journey for survivors. Setting boundaries is essential for healing and self-preservation. Support networks are vital for survivors of trauma. Sharing one's story can be empowering and healing. Therapists should approach survivors with compassion and understanding.   Chapters (timings approx) 00:00 Introduction to Daniel's Journey 01:46 Uncovering Childhood Trauma 05:11 The Role of MDMA Therapy 08:37 The Impact of Repressed Memories 12:25 Family Dynamics and Disclosure 17:33 Understanding Grooming and Conditioning 21:48 The Complexity of Forgiveness 26:13 Advice for Therapists Working with Survivors 30:18 Finding Healing and Support 42:50 The Power of Sharing Your Story

In this episode, renowned neurophysiologist Jonathan Cole meets David and Naomi and shares insights on how our physical body shapes our sense of self, communication, and emotional life. We delve into how physical conditions influence identity, the importance of embodiment, and the nuances of non-verbal communication in human experience. Key topics: The role of neurophysiology in understanding sensory and motor deficits How loss of movement or sensation affects personal identity and social perception The impact of facial paralysis, disfigurement, and cosmetic surgery on social interaction and emotion The significance of gesture, posture, and body language in communication Differences in experiencing congenital vs. acquired conditions like blindness and deafness How embodiment influences mental health and self-awareness The societal implications of physical diversity and discrimination Timestamps: (Approx)  00:00 - Introducing Jonathan Cole: Neurophysiology and accessible science 02:20 - How the nervous impulse explains bodily function and its narrative in literature 03:48 - Living without proprioception: Ian Waterman's story 06:30 - The curiosity-driven career bridging science and literature 08:37 - Embodiment and our automatic movements 10:22 - Practical challenges faced by those with proprioception loss 12:55 - The daily marathon of adapting to bodily disabilities 15:07 - Embodiment's effect on self-identity and social perception 16:47 - How social identity shifts with physical conditions like disfigurement or paralysis 18:48 - The importance of societal acceptance and personal resilience 22:03 - Visual vs. auditory vs. congenital vs. acquired sensory loss 25:10 - The process of adapting after spinal cord injuries and the role of community 27:29 - How embodiment influences verbal and non-verbal communication 30:49 - The role of body language and prosody in expressing emotion 34:22 - Embodiment and emotional expression: stories of women regaining feeling 37:10 - Cosmetic interventions, aging, and emotional expression 41:07 - Gesture impairments and their impact on relationships 43:20 - How physical expression (or lack thereof) influences support-seeking and social support 46:37 - Recognizing true character beyond facial cues 47:49 - Society's empathy and inclusion for embodied diversity 50:10 - The importance of understanding psychological and physical impairments Resources & Links: Hard Talk by Jonathan Cole https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Hard-Talk-by-Jonathan-Cole/9780262049566?srsltid=AfmBOop5VwVWOtq9Q9DYvXR7jan_GAkc9HX_yJGbT294qjKQlQBgbM7V Chekhov’s Sakhalin Journey: Doctor, Humanitarian, Writer (Paperback). Jonathan Cole https://www.waterstones.com/book/chekhovs-sakhalin-journey/jonathan-cole/9781350367517   Note:  The discussion underscores the profound connection between our physical embodiment and our emotional, social, and psychological selves. Recognizing and accommodating physical diversity enhances societal empathy and supports human connection.

In this episode, renowned neurophysiologist Jonathan Cole shares insights on how our physical body shapes our sense of self, communication, and emotional life. We delve into how physical conditions influence identity, the importance of embodiment, and the nuances of non-verbal communication in human experience. Key topics: The role of neurophysiology in understanding sensory and motor deficits How loss of movement or sensation affects personal identity and social perception The impact of facial paralysis, disfigurement, and cosmetic surgery on social interaction and emotion The significance of gesture, posture, and body language in communication Differences in experiencing congenital vs. acquired conditions like blindness and deafness How embodiment influences mental health and self-awareness The societal implications of physical diversity and discrimination Timestamps: (Approx)  00:00 - Introducing Jonathan Cole: Neurophysiology and accessible science 02:20 - How the nervous impulse explains bodily function and its narrative in literature 03:48 - Living without proprioception: Ian Waterman's story 06:30 - The curiosity-driven career bridging science and literature 08:37 - Embodiment and our automatic movements 10:22 - Practical challenges faced by those with proprioception loss 12:55 - The daily marathon of adapting to bodily disabilities 15:07 - Embodiment's effect on self-identity and social perception 16:47 - How social identity shifts with physical conditions like disfigurement or paralysis 18:48 - The importance of societal acceptance and personal resilience 22:03 - Visual vs. auditory vs. congenital vs. acquired sensory loss 25:10 - The process of adapting after spinal cord injuries and the role of community 27:29 - How embodiment influences verbal and non-verbal communication 30:49 - The role of body language and prosody in expressing emotion 34:22 - Embodiment and emotional expression: stories of women regaining feeling 37:10 - Cosmetic interventions, aging, and emotional expression 41:07 - Gesture impairments and their impact on relationships 43:20 - How physical expression (or lack thereof) influences support-seeking and social support 46:37 - Recognizing true character beyond facial cues 47:49 - Society's empathy and inclusion for embodied diversity 50:10 - The importance of understanding psychological and physical impairments Resources & Links: Hard Talk by Jonathan Cole https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Hard-Talk-by-Jonathan-Cole/9780262049566?srsltid=AfmBOop5VwVWOtq9Q9DYvXR7jan_GAkc9HX_yJGbT294qjKQlQBgbM7V Chekhov’s Sakhalin Journey: Doctor, Humanitarian, Writer (Paperback). Jonathan Cole https://www.waterstones.com/book/chekhovs-sakhalin-journey/jonathan-cole/9781350367517   Note:  The discussion underscores the profound connection between our physical embodiment and our emotional, social, and psychological selves. Recognizing and accommodating physical diversity enhances societal empathy and supports human connection.    

Keywords boarding school, trauma, recovery, family dynamics, sexual abuse, journalism, heritage, slavery, mental health, societal change Summary In this conversation, journalist Alex Renton discusses the profound impact of his boarding school experiences on his life and career. He reflects on the trauma associated with his time at school, including issues of abuse and the challenges of speaking out. Renton also explores the complexities of family dynamics, particularly in relation to his own experiences and the legacy of his family's involvement in slavery. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the importance of openness, empathy, and responsibility in addressing these difficult topics and fostering healing. Takeaways Alex Renton reflects on the lifelong impact of negative boarding school experiences. His career as a journalist was influenced by his skepticism towards authority. Alex began writing about boarding schools after learning about abuse cases at his former school. He emphasizes the importance of speaking out against abuse and the challenges that come with it. The conversation highlights the need for empathy towards survivors of abuse. Family dynamics play a crucial role in how individuals cope with trauma. Alex discusses the prevalence of abuse in boarding schools and the need for systemic change. He explores his family's history of involvement in slavery and its emotional implications. The importance of openness and transparency in healing from trauma is emphasized. Alex advocates for better communication and understanding in addressing issues of abuse.   Sound bites "I think, you know, I mean, I do talk people do." "I think we still sending children into danger." "I think we have to talk and we have to open."   Chapters (Timings approx) 00:00 The Impact of Boarding School Experiences 09:11 The Long-Term Effects of Trauma 18:08 Navigating Relationships with Parents 21:22 Stereotypes of Boarding School Education 24:43 Encouraging Disclosure and Support 27:44 The Prevalence of Abuse in Boarding Schools 29:47 Barriers to Disclosure: The Male Perspective 32:25 Societal Attitudes Towards Male Victims 34:30 Exploring Family Legacy and Historical Injustices 39:16 Healing Through Openness and Responsibility 43:26 Current Projects: A Hopeful Future for Child Safety 46:54 Ten second outro video.mp4

Keywords boarding school, trauma, recovery, family dynamics, sexual abuse, journalism, heritage, slavery, mental health, societal change Summary In this conversation, journalist Alex Renton discusses the profound impact of his boarding school experiences on his life and career. He reflects on the trauma associated with his time at school, including issues of abuse and the challenges of speaking out. Renton also explores the complexities of family dynamics, particularly in relation to his own experiences and the legacy of his family's involvement in slavery. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the importance of openness, empathy, and responsibility in addressing these difficult topics and fostering healing. Takeaways Alex Renton reflects on the lifelong impact of negative boarding school experiences. His career as a journalist was influenced by his skepticism towards authority. Alex began writing about boarding schools after learning about abuse cases at his former school. He emphasizes the importance of speaking out against abuse and the challenges that come with it. The conversation highlights the need for empathy towards survivors of abuse. Family dynamics play a crucial role in how individuals cope with trauma. Alex discusses the prevalence of abuse in boarding schools and the need for systemic change. He explores his family's history of involvement in slavery and its emotional implications. The importance of openness and transparency in healing from trauma is emphasized. Alex advocates for better communication and understanding in addressing issues of abuse.   Sound bites "I think, you know, I mean, I do talk people do." "I think we still sending children into danger." "I think we have to talk and we have to open."   Chapters (Timings approx) 00:00 The Impact of Boarding School Experiences 09:11 The Long-Term Effects of Trauma 18:08 Navigating Relationships with Parents 21:22 Stereotypes of Boarding School Education 24:43 Encouraging Disclosure and Support 27:44 The Prevalence of Abuse in Boarding Schools 29:47 Barriers to Disclosure: The Male Perspective 32:25 Societal Attitudes Towards Male Victims 34:30 Exploring Family Legacy and Historical Injustices 39:16 Healing Through Openness and Responsibility 43:26 Current Projects: A Hopeful Future for Child Safety 46:54 Ten second outro video.mp4

  Summary Rochelle Marashi, a psychotherapist, discusses her research on stalking and coercive control, emphasizing the importance of not labeling women as victims but as targets. She shares insights on the challenges of identifying stalking, the role of media in shaping perceptions, and the need for a multidisciplinary approach in therapy. Rochelle also highlights the psychological impact of stalking and the importance of therapists understanding the nuances of such experiences. Check out Rochelle’s website for more information, https://metacog.co.uk/ Khttps://metacog.co.uk/eywordshttps://metacog.co.uk/   keywords Rochelle Marashi, stalking, coercive control, psychotherapy, media influence, psychological impact, multidisciplinary approach, victim vs target, therapist awareness, safety planning Takeaways Rochelle Marashi prefers the term 'targets' over 'victims'. Stalking is calculated and targeted, not by default. Media often romanticizes stalking, affecting public perception. Therapists should name stalking to help clients understand. Stalking can lead to terror, trauma, and isolation. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for support. Therapists' awareness can aid in client disclosure. Stalking isn't always recognized by clients or therapists. Therapists should use minimal notes to protect clients. Understanding stalking's escalation is vital for safety.   Sound bites 'Stalking is calculated and targeted.' 'Media romanticizes stalking.' 'Therapists should name stalking.' 'Stalking leads to terror and trauma.' 'A multidisciplinary approach is crucial.' 'Therapists' awareness aids disclosure.' 'Stalking isn't always recognized.' 'Use minimal notes to protect clients.' 'Understanding escalation is vital.'

Summary Rochelle Marashi, a psychotherapist, discusses her research on stalking and coercive control, emphasizing the importance of not labeling women as victims but as targets. She shares insights on the challenges of identifying stalking, the role of media in shaping perceptions, and the need for a multidisciplinary approach in therapy. Rochelle also highlights the psychological impact of stalking and the importance of therapists understanding the nuances of such experiences. Check out Rochelle’s website for more information, https://metacog.co.uk/ Khttps://metacog.co.uk/eywordshttps://metacog.co.uk/   keywords Rochelle Marashi, stalking, coercive control, psychotherapy, media influence, psychological impact, multidisciplinary approach, victim vs target, therapist awareness, safety planning Takeaways Rochelle Marashi prefers the term 'targets' over 'victims'. Stalking is calculated and targeted, not by default. Media often romanticizes stalking, affecting public perception. Therapists should name stalking to help clients understand. Stalking can lead to terror, trauma, and isolation. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for support. Therapists' awareness can aid in client disclosure. Stalking isn't always recognized by clients or therapists. Therapists should use minimal notes to protect clients. Understanding stalking's escalation is vital for safety.   Sound bites 'Stalking is calculated and targeted.' 'Media romanticizes stalking.' 'Therapists should name stalking.' 'Stalking leads to terror and trauma.' 'A multidisciplinary approach is crucial.' 'Therapists' awareness aids disclosure.' 'Stalking isn't always recognized.' 'Use minimal notes to protect clients.' 'Understanding escalation is vital.'

Keywords forensic psychology, ADHD, prison system, independent practice, emotional wellbeing, mental health, trauma-informed care, psychological assessments, private practice, risk assessment Summary In this conversation, Jo West, a consultant forensic psychologist, shares her journey from working in the prison service to establishing her independent practice. She discusses the challenges and differences she observed between male and female prison environments, her experiences with ADHD, and the importance of emotional wellbeing in her field. Jo emphasizes the need for trauma-informed care and the complexities of psychological assessments, particularly in the context of ADHD diagnoses. Takeaways Jo West transitioned from the prison service to independent practice. She found the prison environment both daunting and rewarding. Jo emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care in women's prisons. She has a passion for supporting individuals with ADHD. Jo's late diagnosis of ADHD provided clarity on her life experiences. She highlights the challenges of working in private practice without a team. Jo believes in the importance of thorough psychological assessments. She uses mindfulness and DBT skills for her own emotional wellbeing. Jo discusses the pressure of expectations in ADHD assessments. She finds fulfillment in reducing the chance of reoffending through her work.   Sound bites   "I think it was really trauma-informed." "I think it can be frustrating." "I had to come to terms with all that."   Chapters   00:00 Transitioning from Prison Service to Independent Practice 01:32 Journey to Forensic Psychology 04:19 Experiences in Men's vs. Women's Prisons 07:42 Current Work as an Independent Psychologist 08:37 Navigating Parole Hearings 13:02 Challenges of Private Practice 16:12 ADHD Diagnosis and Its Impact 19:16 Expectations Around ADHD Assessments 21:40 Emotional Wellbeing in Forensic Psychology

Keywords forensic psychology, ADHD, prison system, independent practice, emotional wellbeing, mental health, trauma-informed care, psychological assessments, private practice, risk assessment Summary In this conversation, Jo West, a consultant forensic psychologist, shares her journey from working in the prison service to establishing her independent practice. She discusses the challenges and differences she observed between male and female prison environments, her experiences with ADHD, and the importance of emotional wellbeing in her field. Jo emphasizes the need for trauma-informed care and the complexities of psychological assessments, particularly in the context of ADHD diagnoses. Takeaways Jo West transitioned from the prison service to independent practice. She found the prison environment both daunting and rewarding. Jo emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care in women's prisons. She has a passion for supporting individuals with ADHD. Jo's late diagnosis of ADHD provided clarity on her life experiences. She highlights the challenges of working in private practice without a team. Jo believes in the importance of thorough psychological assessments. She uses mindfulness and DBT skills for her own emotional wellbeing. Jo discusses the pressure of expectations in ADHD assessments. She finds fulfillment in reducing the chance of reoffending through her work.   Sound bites "I think it was really trauma-informed." "I think it can be frustrating." "I had to come to terms with all that."   Chapters (Times are approx) 00:00 Transitioning from Prison Service to Independent Practice 01:32 Journey to Forensic Psychology 04:19 Experiences in Men's vs. Women's Prisons 07:42 Current Work as an Independent Psychologist 08:37 Navigating Parole Hearings 13:02 Challenges of Private Practice 16:12 ADHD Diagnosis and Its Impact 19:16 Expectations Around ADHD Assessments 21:40 Emotional Wellbeing in Forensic Psychology