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.

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.

Dr Melita Ash, in conversation with Simon Scott-Nelson, discusses school-based distress, school avoidance, and how to support children and parents through these challenges. She shares insights on neurodivergence, the impact of school environment, and practical strategies for re-engagement.

Dr Melita Ash brings a level of clarity to school‑based distress that many families have been searching for. She explains why school avoidance isn’t sometimes a behaviour problem but a distress response - and why neurodivergent young people are at the centre of this picture. 92.1% of children experiencing School Distress are neurodivergent, which tells us this isn’t about parenting failure; it’s about a system struggling to meet the needs of the children it serves. Dr Ash’s experience across the NHS, third sector and independent practice gives parents a language for what they’re living through, and a way to understand the emotional load they’ve been carrying.

She also explores what meaningful re‑engagement can look like. Not pressure, not quick fixes, but approaches that help young people feel safe enough to reconnect with learning. From the role of relationships and sensory environments to the importance of listening to a child’s distress signals, Dr Ash offers practical guidance that supports both parents and schools. It’s a conversation that opens the door to understanding rather than judgement, and one that many families will recognise immediately.

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
Prevalence of school avoidance post-pandemic
Impact of neurodivergence on school attendance
Role of school environment and relationships
Burnout and prolonged stress in young people
Importance of diagnosis and support plans
Strategies for parents and schools to collaborate
Effects of school environment on identity and social belonging
Reforms in special educational needs support

Chapters
00:00 Understanding School-Based Distress
02:49 The Impact of the Pandemic on School Attendance
05:43 The Role of Neurodivergence in School Avoidance
08:31 Social Dynamics and School Avoidance
11:37 Burnout and Its Effects on Young People
14:37 Rebuilding Connections and Support
17:51 The Need for Educational Reform
20:30 Finding Hope and Alternative Paths
23:45 The Future Beyond Traditional Education
30:45 Understanding Parental Challenges in School Attendance
34:11 The Impact of Attendance Policies on Families
38:38 Navigating the Emotional Toll on Parents
41:13 The Importance of Diagnosis and Support
45:16 School Resources and Support Systems
48:41 Exploring Alternatives to Traditional Schooling
56:33 Reframing Education Beyond Traditional Metrics

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
School avoidance, neurodivergence, mental health, education, parental support, school system, anxiety, burnout, EHCP, school reform

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.

Dr Melita Ash and Simon Scott-Nelson explore what empty-nesting really feels like - not just the emotional punch, but the physiological and psychological shifts that hit both parents and teenagers during this stage. For some, the moment their child leaves home brings a mix of sadness, disorientation or even a sense of being “dumped.” For others, it’s long overdue, and the dominant feeling is excitement, relief or a renewed sense of identity. Both experiences are valid, and both tell us something important about the transition.

They dig into adolescent development and individuation - that messy, necessary process where young people work out who they are, push for independence and test boundaries. Melita explains how dopamine levels shape teen risk-taking, how rebellion lands on parents, and how social media has changed the way teenagers socialise and build identity. They also look at how COVID-19 lockdowns disrupted normal development and how economic realities are influencing when young adults actually leave home.

Alongside the teen perspective, they talk openly about the parent side: identity shifts, the emotional complexity of letting go, and the importance of self-care when your role changes overnight. Melita offers practical ways to balance independence with guidance, keep dialogue open, and support yourself as much as your child during this transition - whether you’re grieving the quiet or secretly enjoying it.

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
The psychological impact of children leaving home
Adolescent development and individuation
The role of dopamine in teen risk-taking
Balancing independence and parental guidance
Effects of social media on teen socialisation
Parent identity and self-care during transition
Impact of COVID-19 lockdowns on youth development
Economic and social factors influencing leaving home

Chapters
00:00 Understanding Empty Nesting
02:22 The Transition of Adolescence
05:28 The Role of Social Media in Parenting
08:14 Navigating Parental Identity
11:24 The Impact of Rebellion on Parents
14:20 Finding Balance in Parenting
17:22 Embracing Change in Relationships
20:20 The Journey of Letting Go
25:44 Navigating the Transition to Adulthood
31:30 Embracing Change: The Empty Nest Experience
38:50 The Impact of COVID-19 on Development
43:56 Finding Yourself Again: The Post-Parenting Journey

Resources
Dr. Melita Ash's Website - https://percuropsychology.co.uk/
Dr. Melita Ash's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-melita-housley-percuropsychology/

Keywords
Empty nesting, parenting, adolescent development, social media, mental health, parent identity, independence, family dynamics, family, podcast, Simon Scott-Nelson, InSpirrall

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.

In this episode, we explore the reality of workplace bullying through the lived experience of Teresa, who describes enduring it multiple times across her career. Teresa explains how subtle behaviours escalated into constant criticism, isolation, micromanagement, and emotional pressure that followed her home and consumed her life.

From being undermined by a colleague‑turned‑manager to navigating grief under a boss who dismissed her vulnerability, Teresa’s personal account reveals how bullying can erode confidence, distort self‑belief, and turn a job once loved into something she dreaded.

In Teresa’s words, this is her unfiltered journey of how persistent mistreatment can suffocate even the strongest people - and how long it can take to recover.

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
Workplace bullying definition and types
Teresa's personal experiences with bullying
Impact of bullying on mental health and self-esteem
Strategies for documenting and confronting bullying
The role of HR and union support in addressing bullying
The importance of record-keeping and evidence gathering
Advice for victims on protecting themselves and seeking help

Chapters
00:00 Understanding Workplace Bullying
07:19 Personal Experiences of Bullying
12:19 The Impact of Bullying on Mental Health
20:01 Navigating Workplace Dynamics
27:39 Confronting the Bully
28:57 Recognising the Signs of Bullying
29:20 The Impact of Bullying on Mental Health
33:13 Confronting Workplace Dynamics
37:10 The Role of HR and Unions
45:43 Documenting Evidence Against Bullying
52:25 Finding Strength and Moving Forward

Resources
Union Support and Advice - https://www.unions.org
Workplace Bullying Guide by ACAS - https://https://www.acas.org.uk/bullying-at-work
Mental Health Resources - https://www.mind.org.uk

Keywords
Workplace bullying, mental health, self-esteem, HR, workplace harassment, coping strategies, professional boundaries, Bullying, Bullies

Disclaimer
The views, experiences, and opinions shared in this episode belong solely to the guest. They reflect their personal perspective and recollection of events. Nothing discussed should be taken as a statement of fact about any named or identifiable individual, organisation, or workplace. As host, I provide a space for open conversation but do not verify, investigate, or take responsibility for the accuracy of what is shared. This episode is intended for discussion and reflection only.

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.

Clarke Carlisle shares his deeply personal journey through mental health struggles, addiction, suicidal crisis, and recovery, offering invaluable insights into self‑awareness, honesty, and resilience. From his years at Blackpool, QPR, Leeds, Watford and Burnley, and his England U21 appearances, to the role he holds today, this candid conversation explores the impact of childhood labels, societal conditioning, and the power of authentic self‑acceptance.

Clarke also reflects on the years he spent performing behind a public identity while privately unravelling, and what it took to finally speak with honesty about his inner world. His clarity around self‑talk, shame, and the stories we inherit offers a rare window into how a person rebuilds from the inside out - not through perfection, but through truth, connection, and the courage to be fully seen.

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
Childhood conditioning and labels
Impact of societal and generational influences
The role of honesty and self-awareness in recovery
The cycle of self-sabotage and addiction
The importance of professional mental health support
Strategies for managing negative self-talk and inner critic
The significance of authentic self-acceptance and vulnerability
The role of hope and resilience in overcoming mental health challenges
The importance of community and support systems
Practical tools for mental health and emotional regulation

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Clarke Carlisle's Journey
02:39 The Impact of Labels and Childhood Conditioning
05:31 Navigating Self-Sabotage and Alcohol
08:57 Understanding Agency and Responsibility
11:47 The Complexity of Self-Identity
14:38 The Role of Societal Conditioning
17:01 The Dissonance of Actions and Values
20:10 The Struggle with Self-Worth
23:24 Mental Health and the Journey to Recovery
42:37 The Weight of Worthlessness
51:00 The Path to Hope and Healing
01:00:25 The Power of Self-Talk and Honesty
01:12:26 Breaking the Silence on Suicidal Ideation

Resources
Mind - National Crisis Line - https://www.mind.org.uk
Cognitive Analytical Therapy - https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/talking-therapies/
Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org
Shout Crisis Text Line - https://giveusashout.org
Clarke Carlisle: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkejamescarlisle/

Keywords
Mental health, addiction, self-awareness, recovery, resilience, childhood labels, societal conditioning, honesty, mental health support, personal growth, Premiership, footballer, football

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.

Hanna bravely shares her deeply personal journey of recovery from alcohol addiction, highlighting the emotional, psychological, and social challenges she faced and how she transformed her life through recovery.

Hanna especially reflects on lockdown and discusses her breaking points when she realised her drinking was affecting her ability to care for her son. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone struggling with addiction or seeking self-improvement.

Through her story, Hanna also discusses the role of self-sabotage, and the importance of support systems in recovery. This poignant, honest, and frank conversation conveys struggles of self-identity, the importance of accountability and support, and how Hanna's environment and relationships have changed positively since becoming sober.

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:
Hanna's early relationship with alcohol and family influences
The impact of lockdown and isolation on drinking habits
The moment of hitting rock bottom and its emotional toll
The role of mental health and past trauma in addiction
The process of recovery and the importance of community support
Changing social environments and relationships post-sobriety
The mental battle of addiction and daily management
The positive changes and new life opportunities after sobriety

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Hanna's background
00:59 Starting the journey: early relationship with alcohol
01:59 Family influences and first drinking experiences
03:20 Realisation of problematic drinking patterns
07:28 Impact of lockdown and isolation on drinking
10:34 The night of crisis and hitting rock bottom
14:34 The wake-up call: risking losing her son
18:50 Physical and emotional toll of alcohol
22:17 Breaking free: the decision to stop drinking
28:21 The mental battle and daily management of sobriety
33:08 The transformation and new life opportunities
46:35 The joy and freedom of sobriety
58:36 Advice for those struggling and the importance of support

Resources
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) - https://www.aa.org/
NHS - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/
Drink Aware - https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/alcohol-support-service-finder/

Keywords
Sobriety, recovery, alcohol addiction, mental health, personal journey, self-sabotage, lockdown impact, parenting, emotional struggles, support systems sobriety, alcoholism, recovery, mental health, support, accountability, relationships, transformation, self-improvement, addiction

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.