The NottAlone Podcast

What is the difference between stress and burnout? Host Maddi is put to the test with a quick quiz to kick off this episode. Special guest Nardia O’Connor (Senior Health, Wellbeing and Organisational Development Practitioner) joins the conversation offering powerful and practical insights on how burnout is showing up in today’s workplaces and what leaders can do to tackle it head on and create workplaces that genuinely support mental wellbeing.From psychological safety to the invisible weight of workplace stigma, this episode is packed with insights for leaders, managers, and anyone navigating modern work life. Whether you're leading others or feeling the pressure yourself, this episode is a must-listen on building healthier, more human workplaces.

That’s a wrap! Dr Maddi Popoola and Dr Orlaith Green look back on series one of The NottAlone Podcast and share their highlights.  This series has been all about young people’s mental health, from infants to teenagers, with real conversations, personal experiences and expert advice aimed at busy parents and professionals, including teachers, who are working with children and young people. If you've enjoyed this series, please remember to subscribe for future episodes and leave us a comment, rating or review wherever you listen to help us reach more people to join in the conversation.We’d love to hear your thoughts on this season and any suggestions on what you want us to cover next! You can get in touch by leaving us a comment, on our social media or by emailing nottalone@nottscc.gov.uk. Remember, whatever you’re going through, you are not alone. About NottAloneNottAlone.org.uk is a mental health support resource for people of all ages in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, offering advice and information on a range of mental health subjects, as well as connections to free support services.NottAlone is for all ages, covering individuals, workplaces and advice on how to support a friend or loved one. There’s a dedicated section of the website for children and young people, their parents/carers and professionals workingwith them.Visit the NottAlone website: ⁠⁠nottalone.org.uk⁠⁠About the podcastThis series of The NottAlone podcast was recorded by Brendon Gravell at Inspire’s The Old Library Arts Centre in Mansfield and produced by Jessica Beckwith and Francesca Vaney. Our theme music is the NottAlone song, Not Alone by Alex Mighten.Find out more about the show: ⁠nottalone.org.uk/thenottalonepodcast⁠⁠NottAlone is a partnership between Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and the NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board.

In this episode, Maddi and Orlaith are joined by Rachel Deane for this conversation all about understanding neurodiversity and how it impacts mental health. Discover what a ‘social rulebook’ is, why navigating change can be especially challenging for neurodiverse people and how to put yourself in a child’s shoes to understand their perspective. We focus on young people’s experiences with autism and ADHD to explore building resilience as a neurodiverse child and we have an in-depth discussion on how society needs to change to better support everyone.About NottAloneNottAlone.org.uk is a mental health support resource for people of all ages in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, offering advice and information on a range of mental health subjects, as well as connections to free support services. NottAlone is for all ages, covering individuals, workplaces and advice on how to support a friend or loved one. There’s a dedicated section of the website for children and young people, their parents/carers and professionals working with them. Visit the NottAlone website: ⁠⁠⁠nottalone.org.uk⁠⁠⁠ About the podcastThis episode of The NottAlone podcast was recorded by Brendon Gravell at Inspire’s The Old Library ArtsCentre in Mansfield and produced by Jessica Beckwith and Francesca Vaney. Our theme music is the NottAlone song, Not Alone by Alex Mighten. Find out more about the show: ⁠⁠⁠nottalone.org.uk/thenottalonepodcast⁠⁠⁠  NottAlone is a partnership between Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and the NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board.

In this episode, Maddi and Orlaith discuss exam stress and talk about the strategies that can help young people manage their mental health during exam season and beyond. The hosts delve into what exactly exam stress is, how stress impacts mental health, strategies to manage during difficult times and how to empty your ‘stress bucket’.  They discuss the pressure that society puts on young people when it comes to exams and share the voices of real Notts studentsto investigate what it really feels like for a young person taking exams today. About NottAloneNottAlone.org.uk is a mental health support resource for people of all ages in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, offering advice and information on a range of mental health subjects, as well as connections to free support services. NottAlone is for all ages, covering individuals, workplaces and advice on how to support a friend or loved one. There’s a dedicated section of the website for children and young people, their parents/carers and professionals working with them.Visit the NottAlone website: ⁠⁠⁠nottalone.org.uk⁠⁠⁠ About the podcastThis episode of The NottAlone podcast was recorded by Brendon Gravell at Inspire’s The Old Library Arts Centre in Mansfield and produced by Jessica Beckwith and Francesca Vaney. Our theme music is the NottAlone song, Not Alone by Alex Mighten. Find out more about the show: ⁠⁠⁠nottalone.org.uk/thenottalonepodcast⁠⁠⁠NottAlone is a partnership between Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and the NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board.

In this episode, Maddi and Orlaith explore the powerful connection between physical activity, creativity, and mental health wellbeing.They’re joined by Simon Green from Freedom Foundation, an organisation dedicated to empowering children and young people, building confidence and self-worth through music, dance, spoken word poetry and creative expression.Simon shares stories and insights from the young people he works with, exploring the challenges they face, and how finding a creative outlet can be life-changing. Together, they discuss the role adults play in helping children discover their passions and the importance of movement and creativity in developing emotional resilience.An inspiring conversation about self-expression, mental health, and the joy of finding ‘your thing’.About NottAloneNottAlone.org.uk is a mental health support resource for people of all ages in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, offering advice and information on a range of mental health subjects, as well as connections to free support services.NottAlone is for all ages, covering individuals, workplaces and advice on how to support a friend or loved one. There’s a dedicated section of the website for children and young people, their parents/carers and professionals working with them.Visit the NottAlone website: ⁠⁠nottalone.org.uk⁠⁠ About the podcastThis episode of The NottAlone podcast was recorded by Brendon Gravell at Inspire’s The Old Library Arts Centre in Mansfield and produced by Jessica Beckwith and Francesca Vaney. Our theme music is the NottAlone song, Not Alone by Alex Mighten. Find out more about the show: ⁠⁠nottalone.org.uk/thenottalonepodcast⁠⁠  NottAlone is a partnership between Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and the NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board.

Join hosts Maddi and Orlaith for an enlightening discussion with Charlotte Lewis-Gordon, the Mental Health Improving Attendance Team Manager at Nottingham City Council.In this episode, we discuss the complex connection between anxiety and school attendance. Charlotte sheds light on the challenges of Emotional Behavioural School Avoidance (EBSA) and shares effective strategies to support children in returning to education, whether that means re-joining a traditional school setting, engaging in online tutoring, or exploring other alternatives.We also examine the influence of social media, digital bullying, and feelings of loneliness and isolation on school attendance, identifying key barriers that students encounter. This episode is packed with valuable insights for parents, teachers, and students navigating anxiety-related school challenges. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding and practical advice on supporting children's educational journeys. About NottAloneNottAlone.org.uk is a mental health support resource for people of all ages in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, offering advice and information on a range of mental health subjects, as well as connections to free support services.NottAlone is for all ages, covering individuals, workplaces and advice on how to support a friend or loved one. There’s a dedicated section of the website for children and young people, their parents/carers and professionals working with them.Visit the NottAlone website: ⁠nottalone.org.uk⁠ About the podcastThis episode of The NottAlone podcast was recorded by Brendon Gravell at Inspire’s The Old Library Arts Centre in Mansfield and produced by Jessica Beckwith and Francesca Vaney. Our theme music is the NottAlone song, Not Alone by Alex Mighten. Find out more about the show: ⁠nottalone.org.uk/thenottalonepodcast⁠  NottAlone is a partnership between Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and the NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board.

Welcome back to The NottAlone Show, hosted by NottAlone co-founders Dr Orlaith Green and Dr Maddi Popoola. In this episode, we’re talking about young people’s mental health. Find out what you need to know about the mental health challenges facing young people today, how to have an effective conversation about mental health and what makes the biggest difference when a young person is struggling.  Find out more about supporting your child or a young person you know or work with when it comes to their mental health: nottalone.org.uk About NottAloneNottAlone.org.uk is a mental health support resource for people of all ages in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, offering advice and information on a range of mental health subjects, as well as connections to free support services.NottAlone is for all ages, covering individuals, workplaces and advice on how to support a friend or loved one. There’s a dedicated section of the website for children and young people, their parents/carers and professionals working with them.Visit the NottAlone website: nottalone.org.uk About the podcastThis episode of The NottAlone podcast was recorded by Brendon Gravell at Inspire’s The Old Library Arts Centre in Mansfield and produced by Jessica Beckwith and Francesca Vaney. Our theme music is the NottAlone song, Not Alone by Alex Mighten. Find out more about the show: nottalone.org.uk/thenottalonepodcast  NottAlone is a partnership between Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and the NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board.

We're joined by Nottingham’s own Alex Mighten (formerly performing as Karizma) — rapper, singer-songwriter, and event host — for a heartfelt conversation about men’s mental health and masculinity. Alex opens up about his personal journey through counselling, early fatherhood, and the silent struggles many men face balancing the societal pressures to “be strong” and “provide.”We explore the stigma around asking for help, the impact of generational patterns, and the emotional weight carried by fathers, partners, and men navigating today’s expectations. From feelings of jealousy and helplessness in early parenthood to breaking harmful stereotypes, Alex shares honest reflections on vulnerability, emotional intelligence, and what it truly means to show up emotionally.Whether you’re a dad, partner, or someone rethinking masculinity and modern parenthood, this episode offers powerful insights and practical advice on how to support men and build healthier emotional connections.

Content warning: this episode contains explicit language. In this episode, Nottingham rapper, poet, and youth mentor Jourdan Blair, better known as Jah Digga, opens up about his personal journey through addiction, the grip of gambling, and the long road to recovery. We explore the psychology of addiction: the highs, the spirals, and the quiet strength it takes to rebuild. Jah speaks candidly about how addiction impacted his mental health, relationships, and identity—touching on themes of trauma, pride, validation, and the pressures of masculinity. From battling insomnia and anxiety to finding healing through structure, the gym, and music, Jah shares the tools that helped him reclaim his life. The episode is anchored by his raw and resonant freestyle, “Addictions” (2025), a track that’s struck a chord with millions. We also discuss the role of community, the power of routine, and the responsibility artists carry when their words influence young minds. As Jah puts it: “Forget the platform. As artists, we’re all responsible because we’re projecting. And the kids out there are listening.” Whether you're facing your own challenges or seeking to better understand addiction, this episode offers honesty, insight - and hope. Follow Jah Digga: [@JahDigga] Support is available:GamCare, part of the National Gambling Support Network – 0808 8020 133 If you're struggling and need urgent help:NHS Mental Health Support – Dial 111, then press option 2Nottingham & Nottinghamshire Crisis Sanctuaries – 0330 822 4100Samaritans - 116 123 Please remember to subscribe for future episodes and leave us a comment, rating or review wherever you listen to help us reach more people to join in the conversation. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode and any suggestions on what you want us to cover next! You can get in touch by leaving us a comment, on our social media or by emailing ⁠nottalone@nottscc.gov.uk⁠. Remember, whatever you’re going through, you are not alone.

Content warning: this episode contains discussions around suicide and bereavement. In our first episode of series two, we’re joined by Nottingham-based rapper, beatboxer and performer Alex Young, also known as Motormouf. Alex shares his personal journey of losing friends to suicide, opening up about the impact of grief, the complexities of bereavement by suicide, and the importance of mental health support.Through honest conversation, Alex reflects on how these experiences have shaped his life and music, and how creative expression has helped him navigate pain and healing. We talk about the stigma surrounding suicide, the misconceptions that often prevent people from seeking help, and the power of speaking out.Whether you’ve been affected by suicide or are supporting someone who has, we hope this conversation offers comfort, connection, and most importantly - hope.If you're struggling, you're not alone. Help is available 24/7:📞 Samaritans – 116 123 (free, 24/7)📞 NHS Mental Health Support – Dial 111,then press option 2📞 Nottingham & Nottinghamshire Crisis Sanctuaries – 0330 822 4100Visit NottAlone.org for local and national support services.

In this episode, Maddi and Orlaith are joined by infant mental health expert Elayne Walker to explore what does resilience mean? How do babies experience mental health? And what can parents and carers do to lay the foundations for positive mental health in their baby’s early years?We delve into the development of how babies brains and what that means for their mental health and wellbeing. The episode also discusses pregnancy and post-partum mental health, highlighting the impact on birthing parents and those supporting them.  Elayne shares professional expertise and talks openly about her own postnatal mental health to shed light on this important topic. This is the final episode of series one of The NottAlone Podcast! We’ll be back soon with series two, so keep an eye out for new episodes later this year.

Welcome to The NottAlone Podcast: real talk about mental health.Join hosts Dr. Orlaith Green and Dr. Maddi Popoola, co-founders of NottAlone, as they open up honest conversations about mental health and wellbeing on The NottAlone Podcast.Each episode brings you real-life stories, practical advice and insights from local professionals and advocates from across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. From building resilience in early childhood to navigating anxiety, school attendance, neurodivergence and how closely linked our physical and mental health is – no topic is off the table.We aim to break stigma, normalise mental health discussions, and raise awareness of the free local support available in Notts. Life comes with challenges, but no matter what you’re going through, you are not alone.About NottAloneNottAlone.org.uk is a mental health support resource for people of all ages in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, offering advice and information on a range of mental health subjects, as well as connections to free support services.NottAlone is for all ages, covering individuals, workplaces and advice on how to support a friend or loved one. There’s also a dedicated section of the website focused on children and young people, their parents/carers and professionals working with them. Visit the NottAlone website: Mental Health Support Services For People In Nottinghamshire | NottAloneAbout the podcastThis episode of The NottAlone podcast was recorded by Brendon Gravell at Inspire’s The Old Library Arts Centre in Mansfield and produced by Jessica Beckwith and Francesca Vaney. Our theme music is the NottAlone song, Not Alone by Alex Mighten.Find out more about the show: The NottAlone PodcastNottAlone is a partnership between Nottinghamshire County Council, Nottingham City Council and the NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Board.