The Mood Booster Podcast

The Home of Wellbeing and Joy. Welcome to Episode 30: How to Heal Your Relationship with Yourself: Reflecting on Inner Dialogue, where Dr Marcus and Charlie are joined by Sam Hughes for a powerful conversation about self-talk, self-compassion, and building a kinder relationship with the person you spend the most time with: yourself. From understanding how your inner voice shapes emotion and behaviour, to learning practical tools for reframing negative self-talk, this episode explores the science of inner dialogue, emotional regulation, and how to quiet the inner critic to find more peace, confidence, and connection in daily life. We explore: • How inner dialogue shapes mood, confidence, and relationships 🧠 • The Reticular Activating System (RAS) and why your brain filters for negativity (Baumeister et al., 2001) • How the amygdala amplifies emotional salience and threat sensitivity • How cognitive reappraisal (Ochsner & Gross, 2005) helps regulate emotion and rewrite self-narratives • Practical tools for daily self-compassion: journaling, boundaries, morning rituals, and mindset reframes 🌱 Practical Advice for Listeners: Notice your inner critic (awareness is the first step to change) Reframe: “What would I say to a friend in this situation?” Use small daily rituals to reinforce kindness like journaling, breath work, affirmations Build connection and how healing your relationship with yourself transforms how you relate to others Thanks for listening! If this episode helps, share it with someone who could use a reminder to go easier on themselves 💛 📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration, Presence & Gratitude, Community & Connection, Wellbeing & Joy 📚 References cited in this episode: Baumeister, R. F., Bratslavsky, E., Finkenauer, C., & Vohs, K. D. (2001). Bad is Stronger than Good. Review of General Psychology, 5(4), 323–370. https://doi.org/10.1037/1089-2680.5.4.323 Ochsner, K., & Gross, J. (2005). The cognitive control of emotion. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 9(5), 242–249. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2005.03.010 🔔 Don’t forget to follow and review. It really helps us grow! 📲 Follow us for more: 👉 Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast 👉 TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast 🌍 Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast

The Home of Wellbeing and Joy. Welcome to Episode 29 Why You Feel Sad in the Darker Months: Reflecting on Seasonal Change, where Dr Marcus and Charlie explore the science behind autumn and winter low-mood, the biological and behavioural shifts that make this period uniquely challenging, and how to adapt, reframe, and care for yourself through it.  From light exposure to circadian disruption, serotonin, physical activity, and connection, this episode dives into why many of us feel the “winter blues” and offers practical tools to build resilience and peace through seasonal change. We help you find joy in the winter months! We explore: Our own experiences with seasonal change and mood shifts How people are more sedentary, spend more time in bed, and get less light in winter than in summer (O’Connell et al., 2013) ❄️ How sunlight exposure is linked to lower risk of depression, better sleep, and higher mood (Burns et al., 2024) ☀️ Why circadian rhythm disruption and reduced sunlight interfere with serotonin regulation and mood stability Why darkness increases amygdala reactivity and negative focus bias, making uncertainty feel scarier 🧠 Practical Advice for Listeners: Light First Thing Anchor Your Day with Movement Create Seasonal Rituals Reframe how you see the change Prioritise Connection Thanks for listening, and if this episode helps, share it with someone who could use a boost this winter 💛 📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration, Presence & Gratitude, Community & Connection, Wellbeing & Joy 📚 References cited in this episode: O’Connell, S. E., Griffiths, P. L., & Clemes, S. A. (2013). Seasonal variation in physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep in a sample of UK adults. Annals of Human Biology, 41(1), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.3109/03014460.2013.827737 Burns, A. C., Saxena, R., Vetter, C., Phillips, A. J. K., Lane, J. M., & Cain, S. W. (2021). Time spent in outdoor light is associated with mood, sleep, and circadian rhythm-related outcomes: A cross-sectional and longitudinal study in over 400,000 UK Biobank participants. Journal of Affective Disorders, 295, 347–352. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2021.08.056 Lambert, G., Reid, C., Kaye, D., Jennings, G., & Esler, M. (2002). Effect of sunlight and season on serotonin turnover in the brain. The Lancet, 360(9348), 1840–1842. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(02)11737-5 Kim, K., Kim, J., Jung, S., Kim, H., Kim, H., Son, E., Ko, D. S., Yoon, S., Kim, B. S., Kim, W. K., Lim, C., Kim, K., Lee, D., & Kim, Y. H. (2025). Global prevalence of seasonal affective disorder by latitude: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 390, 119807. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2025.119807 McGlashan, E. M., Poudel, G. R., Jamadar, S. D., Phillips, A. J. K., & Cain, S. W. (2021). Afraid of the dark: Light acutely suppresses activity in the human amygdala. PLoS ONE, 16(6), e0252350. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0252350 🔔 Don’t forget to follow and review - it really helps us grow! 📲 Follow us for more: 👉 Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast 👉 TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast 🌍 Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast

The Home of Wellbeing and Joy. Welcome to Episode 28 How to Make a Podcast: Reflecting on the Last Six Months, where Dr Marcus and Charlie take a moment to pause, look back, and reflect on the journey so far. From launching The Mood Booster to hitting 10K followers and everything in between. In this special stock-take episode, we ask each other honest questions about the highs, lows, and lessons of the past six months. We share what’s surprised us most, what we’ve learned about ourselves, and what it’s really like to build a wellbeing brand together as best mates. We explore: • The most memorable moments of podcasting so far 🎙️ • What we’ve learned about ourselves (and each other) 💡 • Behind-the-scenes challenges and how we navigated them ⚖️ • What keeps us motivated to keep showing up 🌱 Thanks for being part of our journey, we couldn’t have done it without you 💛 📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration, Presence & Gratitude, Community & Connection, Wellbeing & Joy 🔔 Don’t forget to follow and review — it really helps us grow! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast

The Home of Wellbeing and Joy. ⚠️ Please note: This episode contains discussions of topics that some listeners may find difficult, including sexual harassment and gender-based violence. Welcome to Episode 27 How to Navigate Fitness as a Female: Reflecting on Sexism in a Male-Dominated Industry, where Dr Marcus and Charlie bring on Maria Galitzine (@motivatewithmaria) to share her lived experience and how she has grown a platform all about female empowerment and self-confidence in male-dominated spaces. From early experiences in sport to confronting harassment and breaking down damaging myths, this conversation explores the barriers women face in fitness spaces and the importance of building safe, inclusive communities. Together, we reflect on how men and non-female athletes can play an active role in making change, and what advice can support newcomers to feel confident, safe, and seen. We explore: • Maria’s journey through ballet, martial arts, rugby, watersports, and how these shaped her athletic identity 🏋️‍♀️ • Harassment in gyms: what it looks like, why it matters, and how it impacts non-male athletes 🚫 • The taboos around menstrual cycles, nutrition, and the damaging myths still circulating in fitness spaces 📉 • What coaches and PTs need to know to truly support female athletes 🎓 • Practical steps men and allies can take to create safer, more inclusive spaces 🤝 Practical Advice for Listeners: • For women and newcomers: you deserve to be in these spaces, here’s how to hold your ground. • For allies: listen, learn, and use your voice to challenge harassment and exclusion. • Build or seek out safe spaces where confidence, growth, and joy in movement can thrive. Thanks for listening, and if something resonates, please share it with someone who needs to hear it 💛 📍 Pillars explored: Connection & Community, Introspection & Inspiration, Wellbeing & Joy 📚 References cited in this episode: University of Manchester study showed over 2/3 women in N.England have experienced harassment while running. Accessible at: https://www.n8prp.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/315/2024/03/Briefing-Report-UoM-N8-Project-Abuse-of-Women-Runners-CM-RB.pdf? A survey of 1000 UK gym goers showed that 51.8% had either experienced or witness gym harassment in some form. Accessible at: https://train.fitness/personal-trainer-blogs/over-half-of-uk-gym-goers-have-witnessed-or-experienced-harassment Among women who experienced harassment, 25.65% stopped using gyms completely or switched gyms. Accessible at: https://runrepeat.com/gym-harassment Sports bra can improve a woman’s performance by up to 7%. Accessible at: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/sports-and-active-living/articles/10.3389/fspor.2023.1113952/full Asics Fitness Gender Gap showed that women see lack of “safe spaces” as a barrier to fitness. Accessible at: https://www.asics.com/us/en-us/mk/move-her-mind/report Out of over 1 million UK girls who considered themselves sporty stopped playing after primary school out of fear of being judged, lack of confidence or body image. Accessible at: https://womeninsport.org/resource/barriers-sports-participation-women-girls 72% of women change their behaviour when exercising during winter. Accessible at: https://www.sportengland.org/news-and-inspiration/majority-women-change-behaviour-getting-active-outdoors-winter Adidas news survey found that over 50% of 4500 women were scared to be physically attacked while running. Accessible at: https://news.adidas.com/running/new-adidas-study-finds-92--of-women-are-concerned-for-their-safety-when-they-go-for-a-run/s/c318f69e-7575-4ced-bbf3-9db6d2ab1642 Ross, E., Moffat, B., & Smith, B. (2023). The Female Body Bible: A Revolution in Women’s Health and Fitness. Bantam Press. 🔔 Don’t forget to follow and review — it really helps us grow! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Patreon: @charlieandmarcus Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast

The Home of Wellbeing and Joy. Welcome to Episode 26 Reflecting on Apologies, where Dr Marcus and Charlie explore what makes an apology meaningful, why saying sorry is so hard, and how genuine remorse and repair can restore trust and help us heal. From the idea that apology is a process (not a single line) to the six core ingredients of effective apologies, this episode dives into the psychology of repair, why vulnerability matters, how closeness and gender can make apologies more difficult, and why timing, responsibility, and follow-through are everything. We explore: • Why apology is best understood as a process of affect, affirmation, and action (Slocum et al., 2011) 🧩 • The six ingredients of an effective apology: regret, explanation, responsibility, repentance, offer of repair, request for forgiveness (Lewicki et al., 2016) 📋 • How closeness and gender shape our ability to apologise and receive apologies 👥 • When an apology is enough, and when repair needs time, action, or boundaries ⏳ Practical Advice for Listeners: Be specific & honest: name the behaviour: “I said X, and I know it hurt you.” Acknowledge the impact: show you see their experience (impact matters more than intent). Offer repair: ask, “What can I do to make this right?” and follow through. Don’t rush forgiveness: an apology is responsibility-taking, not a demand for instant reconciliation. Practice self-apology: use journaling or self-compassion statements to release lingering guilt. Receiving an apology: take your time; distinguish genuine remorse from performative language. Thanks for listening, and if something resonates, share it with someone who needs it 🧡 📍 Pillars explored: Connection & Community, Introspection & Inspiration, Wellbeing & Joy 📚 References cited in this episode: • Slocum, D., Allan, A., & Allan, M. M. (2011). An emerging theory of apology. Australian Journal of Psychology, 63(2), 83–92. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1742-9536.2011.00013.x • Lewicki, R. J., Polin, B., & Lount, R. B. (2016). An exploration of the structure of effective apologies. Negotiation and Conflict Management Research, 9(2), 177–196. https://doi.org/10.1111/ncmr.12073 🔔 Don’t forget to follow and review — it really helps us grow! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Patreon: @charlieandmarcus Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast

The Home of Wellbeing and Joy. Welcome to Episode 25 How to Forgive and Find Peace: Reflecting on Forgiveness, where Dr Marcus and Charlie explore how forgiveness can help us let go of resentment, regulate emotions, and reclaim peace, even when justice isn’t possible. From self-forgiveness to the REACH model, this episode dives into what forgiveness really is (and isn’t), why it supports mental and physical health, and how to practise it without excusing harm or forcing reconciliation. We explore: • How forgiveness shifts us from fight-or-flight into healing 🌱 • Why self-forgiveness matters for true emotional growth 💡 • How to balance justice, accountability, and peace ⚖️ • The REACH model: Recall, Empathise, Altruistic gift, Commit, Hold on 🧠 • Why forgiveness is linked to better health and wellbeing 💓 Practical Advice for Listeners: 1. Shift the Spotlight Back to You 2. Release the Need for Justice Move to Peace 3. Allow Time 4. Redefine Relationships Post-Forgiveness 5. Empathise with the offender 6. Forgive Yourself, Too Thanks for listening, and if something resonates, share it with someone who needs it 🧡 📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration and Wellbeing & Joy 📚 References cited in this episode: Worthington Jr, E. L. (2013). Forgiveness and reconciliation: Theory and application. Routledge. Worthington, E. L., & Scherer, M. (2004). Forgiveness is an emotion-focused coping strategy that can reduce health risks and promote health resilience: theory, review, and hypotheses. Psychology and Health, 19(3), 385–405. https://doi.org/10.1080/0887044042000196674 Woodyatt, L., & Wenzel, M. (2013). Self-Forgiveness and restoration of an offender following an interpersonal transgression. Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology, 32(2), 225–259. https://doi.org/10.1521/jscp.2013.32.2.225 🔔 Don’t forget to follow and review — it really helps us grow! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Patreon: @charlieandmarcus Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast

The home of wellbeing and joy. Welcome to Episode 24 Reflecting on: Resentment, where Dr Marcus and Charlie explore why resentment forms, how it affects our wellbeing, and practical ways to work through it. From the mental replay loops that keep us stuck to the ways resentment signals what matters most to us, this episode dives into how noticing, processing, and releasing resentment can free up energy for joy, connection, and self-care. We explore: • What resentment really is: anger, rumination, and moral protest 🧠 • How lingering resentment affects mental and physical health 📚 • Why it protects us from vulnerable feelings like shame, guilt, and sadness ✨ • How to move forward without suppressing or ignoring your emotions 🌱 Practical Advice for Listeners: • Notice the replay loop: “Am I reliving this more than living today?” • Use resentment as data: identify the values or boundaries that have been compromised • Talk about it: communicate your feelings and boundaries • Write, don’t send: transform resentment into closure through journaling or unsent letters • Shift focus from them → to you: reinvest energy into joy, connection, and self-care Thanks for listening, and if something resonates, share it with someone who needs it 🧡 📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration, Presence & Gratitude, Community & Connection, Wellbeing & Joy 📚 References cited in this episode: Ruiz, D. M., & Mills, J. (1997). The four agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom. Hay House, Inc. Williams, R., & Williams, V. P. (1994). Anger kills. Harper Collins. 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!

The home of wellbeing and joy. Welcome to Episode 23 Reflecting on: Mentorship, where Dr Marcus and Charlie are joined by Dom Edwards, founder of The Arena, a mentoring charity he has been running for five years. Together, we explore how having the right mentor can shape your growth, wellbeing, and confidence, and why seeking guidance doesn’t mean weakness. From finding the right person to guide you, to building long-term relationships that support both your career and mental health, this episode dives into the real impact mentoring can have on our lives. We explore: Why mentoring matters for wellbeing and growth 🌱 How to find (and recognise) a good mentor 👀 Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness 💪 How mentoring builds confidence, direction, and community 🤝 Practical Advice for Listeners: Asking for help isn't a weakness Where to look for a mentor It doesn't have to be so formal Having the confidence to ask Taking time to build trust 📍 Pillars explored: Community & Connection, Inspiration & Introspection, Wellbeing & Joy Thanks for listening, and if something resonates, share it with someone who needs it 🧡 📚 References cited in this episode: Bandura, A., & Walters, R. H. (1977). Social learning theory (Vol. 1, pp. 141-154). Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice hall. Tajfel, H., Turner, J. C., Austin, W. G., & Worchel, S. (1979). An integrative theory of intergroup conflict. Organizational identity: A reader, 56-65. 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!  

The home of wellbeing and joy. Welcome to Episode 22 Reflecting on: Tradition, where Dr Marcus and Charlie explore why humans hold on to rituals and how to keep the ones that serve you while letting go of the rest. From the comfort of family traditions to the weight of outdated customs, we dive into the psychology of why traditions matter, how they shape our identity, and when they can become harmful if left unchallenged. We explore: Why traditions give us identity & stability 🏡 How they help us cope with change and uncertainty 🌱 When they become toxic or exclusionary 🚫 Ways to adapt, create, and challenge traditions to better serve your life ✨ Practical Advice for Listeners: Keep the meaning, not always the method Balance old and new Use tradition as an anchor, not a cage Challenge harmful traditions Create micro-traditions for joy Thanks for listening, and if something resonates, share it with someone who needs it 🧡 📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration, Presence & Gratitude, Community & Connection and Wellbeing & Joy 📚 References cited in this episode: Atchley, R. C. (1989). A continuity theory of normal aging. The Gerontologist, 29(2), 183–190. https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/29.2.183 Greenberg, J., Solomon, S., & Pyszczynski, T. (1997). Terror Management Theory of Self-Esteem and Cultural Worldviews: Empirical assessments and Conceptual Refinements. In Advances in experimental social psychology (pp. 61–139). https://doi.org/10.1016/s0065-2601(08)60016-7 Helliwell, J. F., & Putnam, R. D. (2004). The social context of well–being. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences, 359(1449), 1435–1446. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2004.1522 Tajfel, H., Turner, J. C., Austin, W. G., & Worchel, S. (1979). An integrative theory of intergroup conflict. Organizational identity: A reader, 56-65. 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!  

The home of wellbeing and joy. Ep 21: The Truth About Gossip - Connection or Chaos? We all gossip. But what if it’s not always bad? In this episode of The Mood Booster Podcast, Dr Marcus and Charlie unpack the psychology, science, and social dynamics of gossip - and how it shapes our relationships more than we think. 🧠 Why your brain loves gossip 🪢 How gossip evolved as a tool for survival 🤐 When to speak up vs. stay silent 💬 Tools to turn gossip into connection, not control Backed by research and packed with real talk, this episode helps you rethink what you say about others and what it says about you. 🎧 Listen now to feel clearer, more connected, and a little more in control. 📚 References cited in this episode: Robbins, M. L., & Karan, A. (2019). Who gossips and how in everyday life? Social Psychological and Personality Science, 11(2), 185–195. https://doi.org/10.1177/1948550619837000 Dunbar, R. I. M. (1996). Grooming, gossip, and the evolution of language. Harvard University Press. Feinberg, M., Willer, R., & Schultz, M. (2014). Gossip and ostracism promote cooperation in groups. Psychological Science, 25(3), 656–664. https://doi.org/10.1177/0956797613510184 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!

The home of wellbeing and joy. Welcome to Episode 20 Reflecting on: Managing Expectations Part 2, where Dr Marcus and Charlie explore the emotional highs, lows, and flatlines that follow the big moments we build up in our heads. Ever looked forward to something for weeks, a birthday, a trip, a major milestone, only to feel a bit… underwhelmed once it actually happens? In this episode, we dig into the psychology behind that “is this it?” feeling. We explore what happens when anticipation doesn’t match reality, why we often overestimate how good (or bad) we’ll feel, and how to move through emotional letdowns with more self-compassion. 🎢 We unpack: – The power of anticipation and why it can be more enjoyable than the event itself – Affective forecasting; the science of why we’re bad at predicting our future feelings – The truth about hedonic adaptation, and why joy doesn’t stick – The role of social media in making us feel our lives should look and feel more exciting – Tools for reframing unmet expectations and finding meaning in the moment 💡 Remember: It didn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Thanks for listening, and if something resonates, share it with someone who needs it 🧡 📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration, Presence & Gratitude, and Wellbeing & Joy 📚 References cited in this episode: Wilson, T.D., & Gilbert, D.T. (2003). Affective forecasting: Knowing what to want. Psychological Science, 14(3), 131–134. Gilbert, D.T., & Wilson, T.D. (2005). Why the brain is not built to make us happy and what we can do about it. In E. C. Chang (Ed.), Self-criticism and self-enhancement: Theory, research, and clinical implications. Van Boven, L., & Ashworth, L. (2007). Looking forward, looking back: Anticipation is more evocative than retrospection. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 136(2), 289–300. Kumar, A., Killingsworth, M.A., & Gilovich, T. (2014). Waiting for Merlot: Anticipatory consumption of experiential and material purchases. Psychological Science, 25(10), 1924–1931. Chou, H.-T. G., & Edge, N. (2012). “They are happier and having better lives than I am”: The impact of using Facebook on perceptions of others’ lives. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 15(2), 117–121. 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!

The home of wellbeing and joy. In Episode 19, we’re tackling the everyday kind of expectations, the type that quietly shape our workdays, relationships, and how we show up for things like plans with friends or finishing our to-do lists. We break down the psychology behind managing expectations, why they matter, how they can help us avoid burnout and frustration, and how to set them clearly and kindly with others (and yourself). From expectation MOTs to setting boundaries with your boss, this one’s full of practical advice, relatable stories, and a few gentle nudges toward peace of mind. 💡 Expect evidence-backed strategies, personal reflections, and real-world tools to help you set clear, compassionate expectations that protect your energy. Thanks for listening, and if something resonates, share it with someone who needs it 🧡 📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration, Presence & Gratitude, Community & Connection, and Wellbeing & Joy (Full house!) 📚 References cited in this episode: Eisenberger, R., Huntington, R., Hutchison, S., & Sowa, D. (1986). Perceived organizational support. Journal of Applied Psychology, 71(3), 500–507. @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!

The home of wellbeing and joy. In Episode 18 of The Mood Booster Podcast, we’re reflecting on: Pets 🐾 This one’s for the dog lovers, the cat cuddlers, and everyone who’s ever felt emotionally supported by a pet. In this episode, Dr Marcus and Charlie dig into the science behind our love for animals, why they’re such powerful mood boosters, and how we can cope with the pain of pet loss when the time comes. From oxytocin boosts to complicated grief, we explore how pets affect our minds and bodies, and why the connection runs so deep. We also reflect on our own stories and talk about: The health and psychological benefits of owning a pet How to honour the loss of a pet and navigate grief Whether pets make us more compassionate humans Tips for people considering getting a pet for wellbeing reasons 🧠 Advice covered in this episode: Use ritual in grief – Memorialising a pet helps process the loss Don’t minimise the pain – Validate that this grief is real Reflect on shared meaning – What did this pet teach you? Use continued bonds – It’s okay to talk to or about them after they’re gone Consider non-ownership alternatives – Volunteering, dog-walking, fostering 📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration, Community & Connection, Presence & Gratitude, and Wellbeing & Joy (Full house!) 📚 References cited in this episode: - Adrian, J. a. L., & Stitt, A. (2017). Pet loss, complicated grief, and Post-Traumatic stress disorder in Hawaii. Anthrozoös, 30(1), 123–133. https://doi.org/10.1080/08927936.2017.1270598 - Ainsworth, M. D. S., Blehar, M. C., Waters, E., & Wall, S. (1978). Patterns of attachment: A psychological study of the strange situation. Lawrence Erlbaum.  - Beetz, A., Uvnäs-Moberg, K., Julius, H., & Kotrschal, K. (2012). Psychosocial and Psychophysiological effects of Human-Animal Interactions: The possible role of Oxytocin. Frontiers in Psychology, 3. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2012.00234 - Hawkins, R. D., Ellis, A., & Robinson, C. (2024). Exploring the connection between pet attachment and owner mental health: the roles of Owner-Pet compatibility, perceived pet welfare, and behavioral issues. medRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory). https://doi.org/10.1101/2024.11.20.24317636 - Loftus, E. F., & Pickrell, J. E. (1995). The formation of false memories. Psychiatric Annals, 25(12), 720-725. psycnet.apa.org  - Wilson, E. O. (1984). Biophilia. Harvard University Press   🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!  

The Home of Wellbeing and Joy. This week, Dr Marcus Bull and Charlie Allnutt are sitting with regret. Whether it’s a choice you didn’t make, something you said (or didn’t say), or a quiet “what if” that lingers, we all experience regret in different ways. In this episode, we explore where regret comes from, using Self-Discrepancy Theory to understand why certain moments stay with us more than others. We also chat through research into the most common regrets people have, and whether it’s better to feel regret, remorse, or let it go entirely. As always, we reflect honestly on our own experiences and offer evidence-backed advice to help you sit with regret in a softer, more compassionate way. Expect: Honest reflection and open conversation Tangible advice for reframing regret Gentle reminders for self compassion Thanks for listening, and if something resonates, share it with someone who needs it 🧡 📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration, Presence & Gratitude 📚 References cited in this episode: Higgins, E. T. (1987). Self-discrepancy: A theory relating self and affect. Psychological Review, 94(3), 319–340. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295x.94.3.319 Roese, N. J., & Summerville, A. (2005). What We Regret Most. . . and Why. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 31(9), 1273–1285. https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167205274693 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!

The Home of Wellbeing and Joy. Dr Marcus Bull and Charlie Allnutt are two friends who come together to discuss wellbeing, introspection and their journey to becoming better people. The podcast blends personal reflection with evidence-based advice, offering listeners practical tools to improve their wellbeing and boost their mood. In each episode, Charlie and Marcus explore building a likeminded community, working through difficult emotions and finding joy in everyday life. They lean on scientific research to guide these conversations and ensure their evolution aligns with the best evidence available to them. With guiding pillars; Introspection and Inspiration, Community and Connection, Presence and Gratitude, and Wellbeing and Joy, Charlie and Marcus invite you to learn, reflect, and grow alongside them, one conversation at a time.

The Home of Wellbeing & Joy. This week, Dr Marcus Bull and Charlie Allnutt explore the wobbles, wrong turns and frustrating moments that happen when things just don’t go to plan. Whether that’s a weekend trip getting rained off, a tech fail, or those irritating curveballs that throw you off your rhythm. We reflect on our own recent experience of a not-so-smooth shoot weekend in the Lake District, and talk through the science and psychology behind why small disruptions feel so disproportionately stressful. Drawing on research by Lazarus & Folkman (1984), we break down how we appraise stress and why our reactions have less to do with the event itself, and more to do with how we perceive and interpret it. You’ll also learn: 🧠 How uncertainty impacts the brain 💭 How to reframe stressful situations as growth moments 🧘 How to build psychological flexibility 🔁 What to do when your routine is thrown off 💗 How self-compassion can reduce spirals ✅ Why simple "If–Then" plans give you power back This episode offers practical tools rooted in CBT, ACT and wellbeing science to help you boost resilience, stay present, and find joy even when your day gets derailed. 📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration, Wellbeing & Joy, Presence & Gratitude Whether you're having one of those mornings, or just trying to build more bounce-back into your week, this one’s for you. Let’s turn life’s left turns into tools for growth. 📚 References cited in this episode: Grupe, D. W., & Nitschke, J. B. (2013). Uncertainty and anticipation in anxiety: an integrated neurobiological and psychological perspective. Nature Reviews. Neuroscience, 14(7), 488–501. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn3524 Hayes, S. C., Luoma, J. B., Bond, F. W., Masuda, A., & Lillis, J. (2005). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: Model, processes and outcomes. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 44(1), 1–25. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brat.2005.06.006 Lazarus, R. S., & Folkman, S. (1984). Stress, appraisal, and coping. Springer. Neff, K. D. (2003). The development and validation of a scale to measure Self-Compassion. Self and Identity, 2(3), 223–250. https://doi.org/10.1080/15298860309027   🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!

In this episode, we dive headfirst into the chaos of modern news. From Trump and the threat of WW3 to compassion fatigue and activist burnout, we explore how 24/7 news cycles are affecting our minds, our moods, and our motivation to help. 📱 We unpack how being constantly plugged in can impact wellbeing, from heightened stress and anxiety (Johnston & Davey, 1997) to emotional overload from trying to do too much (McLaughlin, Gotlieb & Mills, 2022). 💥 But it’s not all doom and gloom. We celebrate activism and purpose as powerful forces for good (Kim, Herrmann & Nah, 2019), and also talk about how to avoid the trap of doing so much that you burn out. We chat about: The weight of bad news The psychology of overexposure Activism as a double-edged sword How to hold onto hope 🌱 Tips for taking healthy breaks, finding good news, and talking it out You are allowed to care and protect your energy. 📚 References cited in this episode: Johnston, W. M., & Davey, G. C. L. (1997). The psychological impact of negative TV news bulletins: The catastrophizing of personal worries. British Journal of Psychology, 88(1), 85–91. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2044-8295.1997.tb02622.x McLaughlin, B., Gotlieb, M. R., & Mills, D. J. (2022). Caught in a dangerous world: problematic news consumption and its relationship to mental and physical Ill-Being. Health Communication, 38(12), 2687–2697. https://doi.org/10.1080/10410236.2022.2106086 Kim, D. H., Von Herrmann, J., & Nah, S. (2023). News portals as a gateway to civic engagement: the case of South Korea. Media International Australia, 191(1), 147–162. https://doi.org/10.1177/1329878x231206643   🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes! 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!

Following on from Ep. 11 where Marcus opened up about self-criticism, this episode is all about balance. We're diving deep into positive self talk, what it is, why it matters, and how it can literally rewire your brain. We explore: Why we’re hardwired to focus on the negative The neuroscience behind self talk and emotional regulation How CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Theory) and distanced self talk can help reframe our internal dialogue Real experiences of building a healthier, more compassionate relationship with ourselves This one blends neurobiology, psychological theory, and real talk. Think: amygdala, inner critic, self-esteem, Beck, Kross, and the power of speaking kindly to yourself. 🎙 Whether you struggle with imposter syndrome, low self-worth, or just want to feel a little more grounded — this one’s for you. —   📚 References cited in this episode: Beck, A.T. (1976). Cognitive Therapy and the Emotional Disorders. Goldin, P. R., McRae, K., Ramel, W., & Gross, J. J. (2007). The Neural Bases of Emotion Regulation: reappraisal and suppression of negative emotion. Biological Psychiatry, 63(6), 577–586. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2007.05.031 Kross, E., & Ayduk, O. (2011). Making meaning out of negative experiences by self-distancing. Current directions in psychological science, 20(3), 187-191. https://doi.org/10.1177/0963721411408883 Shapira, L. B., & Mongrain, M. (2010). The benefits of self-compassion and optimism exercises for individuals vulnerable to depression. The Journal of Positive Psychology, 5(5), 377–389. https://doi.org/10.1080/17439760.2010.516763 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!

In this heartfelt bonus episode, Charlie and Marcus sit down for a festival debrief, and it’s not just about coconuts and flashy flags. After just four months of building the Mood Booster podcast, we take a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come, and to express deep gratitude for each other and the community growing around us. From Alister recognising us (!), to the joy of hearing strangers share what makes them happy, this one's about presence, connection, and letting the moment sink in. Come bask with us. 🌞 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review, it really helps!

Feeling tired all the time, a bit detached, or like you’re running on empty? In this episode, we take a deeper look at burnout, from its emotional weight to its academic roots. Marcus and Charlie discuss personal experiences with burnout and weave in leading psychological theories, including Maslach’s Burnout Inventory and the WHO’s classification of burnout as an occupational phenomenon. We break down what burnout actually is, how it shows up in real life, why it’s different from stress, and what helps when you're in the thick of it. We also reflect on recent studies exploring burnout in younger adults and how modern working culture contributes to the rise in chronic exhaustion. Whether you’re feeling the edge of burnout or just curious about how it works, this episode blends insight, honesty and psychology, with a few laughs in between. —   📚 References cited in this episode: Maslach, C., & Jackson, S. E. (1981). MBI: Maslach burnout inventory. manual. Palo Alto, CA: University of California, Consulting Psychologists Press. World Health Organization (2019). Burn-out an "occupational phenomenon". [ICD-11 classification] https://www.who.int/news/item/28-05-2019-burn-out-an-occupational-phenomenon-international-classification-of-diseases Schaufeli, W. B., Leiter, M. P., & Maslach, C. (2009). Burnout: 35 years of research and practice. Career Development International, 14(3), 204–220. https://doi.org/10.1108/13620430910966406 Han, R., Xu, J., Ge, Y., & Qin, Y. (2020). The impact of social media use on job burnout: The role of Social Comparison. Frontiers in Public Health, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2020.588097 Salvagioni, D. a. J., Melanda, F. N., Mesas, A. E., González, A. D., Gabani, F. L., & De Andrade, S. M. (2017). Physical, psychological and occupational consequences of job burnout: A systematic review of prospective studies. PLoS ONE, 12(10), e0185781. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0185781 https://integrishealth.org/resources/on-your-health/2021/november/what-are-the-5-stages-of-burnout 📲 Follow us for more: Instagram: @themoodboosterpodcast TikTok: @themoodboosterpodcast Website: www.themoodbooster.co.uk 🎥 Prefer video? Watch this episode on YouTube! @TheMoodBoosterPodcast ⭐ If you enjoyed the episode, please rate & review — it really helps!