InSpirrall cover art

InSpirrall

InSpirrall

By: Simon Scott-Nelson
Listen for free

Season's Savings | £0.99/mo for 3 months

£5.99/mo after 3 months - terms apply. Cancel monthly

Inspirrall reflects the idea that our lives can feel 'in‑spiral', yet by sharing our stories we 'inspire‑all' - creating connection, understanding, and the relief of being truly seen, validated and connected.


The InSpirrall podcast helps combat loneliness by creating real, human conversations that make people feel seen, heard, and connected. This community is dedicated to the real, raw, and often hidden parts of being human.

Through honest conversations, personal stories, and thoughtful reflection, we explore the moments that shape us. Whether it’s navigating life’s challenges, understanding ourselves more deeply, or finding connection in shared experiences, InSpirrall is a space for learning, healing, and feeling less alone.


Because real life is not a taboo and staying strong in isolation is unsustainable. Discussing 'the moments that make us hide' helps reduce the feeling of loneliness, shame and guilt, and the silent struggle that inevitably comes with it.

© 2026 InSpirrall Social Sciences
Episodes
  • I Nearly Died From Burnout Twice - Understanding Toxicity, the Nervous System and Recovery

    I Nearly Died From Burnout Twice - Understanding Toxicity, the Nervous System and Recovery
    Oct 22 2026

    Kelly Swingler shares her lived experience of burnout, including two near fatal collapses, the first involving chronic pain, passing out in public places and emergency surgeries, and the second leaving her unable to move from the sofa for six months. We explore how burnout dismantled Kelly's identity despite reaching board level HR at 30, and how Kelly’s Burnout Equation: 'Toxicity - Sense of Self = Burnout', explains the way pressure, pace and expectations erode who you are long before the body breaks.

    Kelly and Simon Scott-Nelson also discuss the complex nature of burnout, nervous system regulation, and practical strategies for recovery. They emphasise the importance of safety, slow progress, and understanding the brain's response to modern stressors.

    Before we begin, a gentle but important message. Across this podcast, we sometimes discuss experiences that may be difficult to hear, including themes that centre around trauma. These conversations are handled with care, but they can still be triggering or emotionally heavy. Please listen in a way that feels safe for you and take a pause or step away at any time if you need to. If anything you hear brings up difficult feelings, reaching out to someone you trust or seeking professional support can make a real difference.

    We are a peer-connection space focused on shared storytelling, not a medical service or crisis centre. If you are in immediate need, we recommend reaching out to professional emergency services.

    Topics
    Kelly Swingler's personal burnout journey
    The neuroscience of burnout and toxicity
    Signs and symptoms of burnout
    Strategies for prevention and recovery
    The impact of modern life on the nervous system
    The concept of the burnout equation and toxicity
    The importance of safety and slow progress in recovery
    Neuroscience insights into fight, flight, freeze responses
    Practical strategies for rejuvenation and energy recharging

    Chapters
    00:00 Kelly Swingler's Personal Burnout Journey
    00:02 Introduction to burnout and nervous system
    03:04 The impact of modern life on our stress response
    03:45 The Neuroscience and Equation of Burnout
    07:02 The burnout equation and toxicity
    09:49 Signs and Symptoms of Burnout
    12:12 The importance of feeling safe in recovery
    16:02 Neuroscience of fight, flight, freeze responses
    20:12 Toxicity, Social Media, and Loss of Self
    21:09 The primitive brain and survival instincts
    25:48 Patterns and behaviours that keep us stuck
    29:56 The Impact of Workplace Toxicity and Identity
    30:48 Strategies for slow, steady recovery
    36:06 Rejuvenation and recharging activities
    37:00 Breaking the Cycle and Moving Towards Recovery
    40:49 The role of inner critic and noise
    45:55 The importance of understanding and managing toxicity
    51:06 Practical steps to rebuild safety and self-esteem
    56:14 The long journey of burnout recovery
    01:01:02 Final advice and encouragement for listeners

    Resources
    Kelly Swingler – Website - https://kellyswingler.com
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@kellyswingler
    LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyswingler
    Two crisis support lines (UK)
    Samaritans: 116 123
    Shout (text support): Text SHOUT to 85258
    Simon Scott-Nelson - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-scott-nelson

    Keywords
    Burnout, mental health, stress management, self-care, workplace stress, recovery, emotional health, Kelly Swingler burnout, nervous system, recovery, mental health, stress management, self-care, neurodivergence, resilience, mental health awareness

    We are a peer-connection space focused on shared storytelling, not a medical service or crisis centre. If you are in immediate need, we recommend reaching out to professional emergency services.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 17 mins
  • Losing My Parents and Finding Myself - The Resilient Journey of the Comeback Queen

    Losing My Parents and Finding Myself - The Resilient Journey of the Comeback Queen
    Sep 25 2026
    Ceri shares her powerful and deeply human story of grief, the loss of both parents, the trauma of suicide, the realities of neurodivergence, the challenges of parenting, and the search for her identity. Her journey begins with a difficult truth. After her mother sadly lost her first child, Ceri grew up being regarded as the booby‑prize baby, a label that shaped her early years and the struggles that followed. What unfolds is a portrait of resilience that has earned her the title of the Comeback Queen.Ceri reflects on childhood trauma, self-doubt, and the long journey towards confidence and positivity. She talks about breaking cycles of negativity, the strength of mindset, and the importance of choosing actions over words when rebuilding a life. Her connection with Force Cancer Charity began after losing her mum to cancer and it has now become a source of purpose, community, and a way to channel her energy into helping others.Throughout the conversation, Ceri speaks honestly about the vulnerability of life and how everything can change in a moment. She highlights the importance of having a cheerleader in your corner and the courage it takes to stay unapologetically yourself. She also shares her experiences with neurodivergence, the adversity she has faced, and the determination that keeps her moving forward.This is a conversation about loss, identity, courage, and the quiet strength required to rise again. Before we begin, a gentle but important message. Across this podcast, we sometimes discuss experiences that may be difficult to hear, including themes that centre around trauma. These conversations are handled with care, but they can still be triggering or emotionally heavy. Please listen in a way that feels safe for you and take a pause or step away at any time if you need to. If anything you hear brings up difficult feelings, reaching out to someone you trust or seeking professional support can make a real difference.We are a peer-connection space focused on shared storytelling, not a medical service or crisis centre. If you are in immediate need, we recommend reaching out to professional emergency services.TopicsCeri's early life challenges and traumaThe impact of childhood loss and parental relationshipsThe role of mindset and self-talk in overcoming adversityBreaking cycles of negativity and building confidenceThe importance of actions over words in relationships and self-esteemThe power of positivity and retraining the brainThe influence of family and environment on self-worth Ceri’s personal story of loss and resilienceThe impact of her work with Force Cancer CharityThe importance of authenticity and self-acceptanceChapters00:00 Introduction and Ceri’s message of resilience00:03 Introduction to Ceri’s inspiring journey01:07 Early childhood trauma and its lasting impact02:34 Ceri’s personal story of loss and resilience02:56 The loss of Ceri’s father and its emotional toll04:40 Feeling second best and self doubt in relationships06:46 Recognising burnout and the struggle to say no07:42 Diagnosis of ADHD and embracing neurodiversity08:19 Ceri’s childhood memories and family dynamics10:17 Dealing with rejection and self esteem issues12:03 Her work with Force Cancer Charity and community impact13:06 The impact of body image and social experiences14:48 The importance of confidence and self love17:19 The importance of authenticity and self acceptance17:21 School experiences and seeking male attention19:13 Overcoming fear of rejection and taking risks22:12 The significance of trust and friendship22:43 Balancing personal challenges with professional purpose24:24 Breaking cycles and choosing positivity27:07 Her upcoming milestones and reflections on life27:22 The power of the mind and self talk29:39 Talking about past trauma and emotional resilience31:48 Parting words: Be unapologetically you32:07 Ceri’s relationship with her mother and family influences34:22 Building confidence and self belief38:30 Love languages and expressing care39:01 Final thoughts on resilience and personal growthResourcesForce Cancer Charity - https://forcecancercharity.co.ukSamaritans - https://www.samaritans.org/SOBS - https://uksobs.com/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ceri-jadeKeywordsResilience, childhood trauma, self-confidence, mindset, mental health, overcoming loss, positivity, personal growth, mental models, emotional strength, neurodiversity, resilience, cancer, Force Cancer Charity, personal journey, mental health, ADHD, neurospicy, fundraising, life lessons, wellbeingWe are a peer-connection space focused on shared storytelling, not a medical service or crisis centre. If you are in immediate need, we recommend reaching out to professional emergency services.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 19 mins
  • Why Does Anxiety Often Get Worse During Adolescence For Autistic Teens? Explanation And Parental Support - With Expert Dr Melita Ash

    Why Does Anxiety Often Get Worse During Adolescence For Autistic Teens? Explanation And Parental Support - With Expert Dr Melita Ash
    Jul 16 2026

    Dr Melita Ash and Simon Scott-Nelson discuss the complexities of autism, anxiety and neurodivergence in adolescents, and why understanding these patterns can make such a difference for families. This episode offers practical and compassionate insights for parents on how to support, advocate for and connect with their children through some of the most challenging developmental years.

    This conversation is one of the most informative and grounding episodes in the series, especially for parents, carers and educators who want clearer guidance and real strategies they can use straight away. As the final part of our three‑episode focus on empty nesting, parenting, school avoidance and neurodivergence in young adults, it brings together the themes that have resonated so strongly with listeners.

    Dr Ash also explains why adolescence can be such a difficult transition for autistic young people, from sensory changes and identity development to the increasing social and emotional demands they face. Her experience helps parents understand what their children may be navigating beneath the surface.

    The episode also explores what a safe environment really means for neurodivergent adolescents, how anxiety can spread through shared nervous systems, and why predictability and emotional regulation matter so much. Dr Ash shares approaches that help families reduce overwhelm, strengthen communication and build confidence in their children as they grow into their own identity.

    Topics
    Autism and its impact on adolescence
    Signs and understanding of anxiety in teens
    The importance of early diagnosis and recognition
    Strategies for creating safe and supportive environments
    The role of neurodivergence in social and emotional development
    Parenting challenges and self-care tips
    The significance of acceptance and positive identity for autistic youth

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Dr Melita Ash and Her Expertise
    02:45 Understanding Anxiety in Adolescents
    06:01 The Impact of Adolescence on Autistic Individuals
    08:47 Navigating Identity and Peer Relationships
    11:42 Communication Challenges Between Autistic and Neurotypical Individuals
    14:46 The Role of Environment in Autism Diagnosis
    17:52 Exploring the Three Main Areas of Autism
    20:48 Sensory Processing Differences in Autism
    23:50 The Importance of Emotional Regulation
    26:49 The Challenges of Adolescence for Autistic Teens
    30:02 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
    32:24 Understanding Anxiety in Children
    33:40 Navigating Parental Challenges with Neurodivergent Children
    36:55 The Balance of Protection and Exposure
    37:59 Creating Safe Environments for Autistic Individuals
    46:20 The Importance of Open Conversations
    48:13 Building Confidence in Autistic Youth
    51:29 Rethinking Education for Neurodivergent Students
    52:56 The Need for Early Recognition and Support
    56:26 Empowering Parents and Children
    01:01:47 Final Thoughts on Parenting and Acceptance

    Resources
    Percuro Psychology - https://percuropsychology.co.uk
    Young Minds - https://youngminds.org.uk
    National Autistic Society - https://autism.org.uk
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drmelitaash/

    Keywords
    Autism, neurodivergence, adolescent anxiety, parenting, mental health, neurodiversity, support strategies, podcast, health, wellbeing

    We are a peer-connection space focused on shared storytelling, not a medical service or crisis centre. If you are in immediate need, we recommend reaching out to professional emergency services.
    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 1 min
adbl_web_anon_alc_button_suppression_t1
No reviews yet