In this uplifting episode of Two Women Chatting, Michelle is joined by Britain's number 1 bestselling nonfiction author Donna Ashworth to explore the healing power of poetry, the importance of community, and the choice to embrace joy - even in life’s most challenging moments. From her journey as an Instagram poet to becoming a celebrated author, Donna shares the philosophy behind her latest anthology Joy Chose You and the deeply personal process of curating poems that resonate with readers. Together, Michelle and Donna discuss how words can act as medicine for the soul, the role of female empowerment and friendship, and why self-acceptance is the foundation of happiness. They also talk about the importance of controlling your 'feed'. The episode concludes with Donna reading her poem Joy Chose You, a moving reminder that joy often arrives quietly, waiting for us to notice.

Key Insights:

🎙️ Joy Amidst Challenges: Donna explains that joy isn’t something we chase - it’s something we allow, even during difficult times.

🎙️ Words as Medicine: Poetry’s magic lies in its ability to comfort, heal, and inspire, acting as medicine for the soul.

🎙️ Connection & Community: Human connection and shared experiences are vital for mental health, belonging, and empowerment.

🎙️ Self-Acceptance & Growth: Embracing who we are allows us to grow, thrive, and be open to life’s simple pleasures.

🎙️ Curating Positivity: From balancing negative news with uplifting stories to selecting poems for her anthology, Donna shares how focusing on the good transforms perspective.

"Joy isn’t something we have to chase - it chooses us when we’re ready."

Episode Resources:

📘 Explore Donna Ashworth’s books, including Joy Chose You and other bestselling anthologies: Donna Ashworth Books

📸 Follow Donna on Instagram: @donnaashworthwords

Connect with Us:

🌟 Website: TwoWomenChatting.com

📸 Instagram: @michelleford_twc

🐦 Twitter/X: @ChattingTwo

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🎵 TikTok: @twowomenchatting0

🎧 This episode was produced and edited by Emma Tindall.

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Donna Ashworth, Joy Chose You, poetry, female empowerment, midlife women, Instagram poet, bestselling author, community, connection, mental health, self-acceptance, personal growth, friendship, inspiration, Two Women Chatting podcast

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