Today’s podcast episode features the indomitable Ann Carney. Ann was trapped in a cycle of overwork and bad health habits when at the age of forty-five, knowing she had to make changes, she decided to try to run. Like many beginners, she started too fast and would have given up if it wasn’t for a serendipitous meeting with a cousin she hadn’t seen in years. He guided her through a couch to 5k, and gaining confidence; she took out an advert in the local paper. She co-founded Chorlton Runners, a club which started with a couple of members and has grown to a membership of over six hundred, and the club is one of the most successful in Manchester. Ann knows that as well as having the courage to make the first step, novice runners also need a helping hand and a supportive structured programme to build momentum step by step. That’s why the Couch to 5K programme is still an integral part of the Chorlton Runner’s ethos and one Ann actively supports.Having found her passion and identity, Ann could have been happy to reap the personal rewards, but she is a person who uses their grit, drive, and boundless energy to make things happen for others. Please listen to Ann’s inspiring story, and for anyone out there who thinks I could never do that, look for a guide because once you have someone at your side, the following steps are so much easier. ReferenceYou can find out more about Chorlton Runners here https://www.chorltonrunners.co.uk/

My guest today is Chloe Richards, a brave and strong breast cancer survivor emerging from a period of loss and change. She is refocusing her business to deliver her mission to help women succeed in the workplace.We talk aboutHow women struggle to describe their value in the workforce.How it's important to take the time to reflect on your success and find the words to do this in a way that feels authentic. Creating behavioural diversity in the workplace so people can communicate in a way that resonates with them.  Celebrating differences helps people to fulfil their potential and bring value in different ways. Taking the time to step back and be clear about what you won't tolerate builds resilience.Redundancy and striking out on your own.The experience of a breast cancer diagnosis.Dealing with loss and change and strengthening of purposeBeing fearless. Being stripped back but brave enough to seek the light and move forward.Seeking help, trusting others and mentally dealing with both loss and illness. Reflecting on values and developing a mission to help women succeed so they can effect change at work, making life better for everyone. The book I gave to Chloe is H is for Hawk by Helen MacDonald 

Want to be a waser reather than a wisher? Listen to this episode and I promise you will get some inspiration to get up, get out and keep going!My guest today is Steve Pullen, a judo 7th Dan and holder of the MBE for his service to blind and disabled judo. He is a coach and has guided judokas to the Olympics, Paralympics, World and European Championships.Steve heads up a group of coaches whose prime objective is to increase and expand judo teaching facilities in North West England to integrate able-bodied and disabled judo.Outside of judo, Steve was in charge of physical education at the acclaimed Chethams School of Music in Manchester.Steve's reputation, passion and commitment are recognised throughout the world. We talk aboutDiscipline - cultivating the habit of never being late.   The importance of early role models and inspirational coachesDeveloping independence and resistance from difficult circumstances, in Steve's case having to spend several years in hospital with severe burns when he was a young child.Being tough minded, overcoming and getting there by driving yourselfBeing a waser not a wisherChanging the lives of others through coachingKnowing when to change direction and try something newAvoiding self-destruction when a life's practice comes to an endUsing your hard earned skill set to forge yourself a new identityThe power of strong relationshipsThe importance of keeping dreaming.  

If Anne Can's podcast is six months old, I'm very grateful to have had the opportunity to produce such a joyful project. I wish you all much cheer over the festive period, and may your dreams come true in 2023.My guest this week is Jane Lockwood; Jane is an activist who lived in Greenham Common to protest the horror of war and nuclear weapons. She has spoken at the UN and the Royal Albert Hall. She subsequently relocated to  Australia, became a special needs socialist and led a national training programme. Jane is reigniting her passion for writing and talking and has contributed to two books on healing from childhood abuse.  In this fascinating discussion, Jane talks about The drive to escape a complex background and the  importance of education Being determined and working hard to take the opportunity getting to university offered.  Becoming an ActivistThe influence of her father's political stance and his support nurtured Jane's instinct to do something about bad things. Greenham Common ExperienceJane answered the call and was deeply affected and horrified by the sight of nuclear weapons. She felt there was no other option but to become physically involved. This has led to a life-long need to take action. Defying ExpectationsBeing different - Jane found her rebellious nature supported and encouraged by others. She believes fear is the driver of stopping people from doing things. By sticking with others, you gain strength. Not having family or career responsibilities at the time of Greenham made Jane's activism easier. She braved the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence or even being shot on sight. She was prepared to take the risk because other people were unable to. Strong self-knowledge MI is moving to a remote part of Australia. Becoming a teacher gave Jane a ready-made family. Being in the Outback gave Jane great happiness. She was living in connection to the land and being outdoors.  An unlimited horizon and space give Jane a spiritual connection.Ending her teaching career with the Aboriginal people was a revelation and inspiration to fight inequality and patriarchy. Looking forward with hopeAcross the world people are still struggling, and the situation for women remains complicated. National movements lead to inspiration.Focus on the SpiritualJane continues the daily journey of looking at herself, taking steps to a better life, and feeling comfortable in her skin. Nature and seeking her path was more fulfilling than established religions. ReferencesYou can find out more bout Jane  Lockwood here:https://greenhamwomeneverywhere.co.uk/jane/This a project to document the Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp, recorded testimonies, oral and written, included from over a hundred women who were part of the camp; there is a visual and music archive and information about current and future events by the project. Jane has some artwork on these sitesContemporary Markmakers Totnes https://www.instagram.com › contemporarymarkmakersand the blog https://markmakers.avenda.uk/  Etsy shop name handmaderosarybeadsThe book I chose for Jane: Wild by Cheryl Strayed                      

My guest today is Rowena Birch, an Olympic and European judo champion. Rowena is also the current president of the British Judo Association. Outside of judo, Rowena has coached at elite levels across many sporting disciplines and corporate leadership. She has retrained as a financial advisor and now runs her own business. Rowena talks about how she coped with not being selected for the Barcelona Olympic games by prioritising her training and reorganising her life to maximise her focus. Self Belief and reflective self-discovery. Being in the right place and loving the sport is vitally important, as is knowing that just because you don't get instant results doesn't mean you are doing anything wrong.  The mindset of enjoying the journey. The danger of over-focusing on results instead of the process. Keeping going relies on finding ways to enjoy what you are doing. After Competition. Using the skills learned from the experience of competitive sport and applying them to coaching and revelling in an environment of learning - creating and developing new skills. Letting go of an elite sporting persona and finding a new place in the world of judo after the elite competitions. - Adjusting techniques to a new reality and accepting that your body and circumstances have changed.   Core Identity - The importance of being part of the judo community, how the core values  of honesty, integrity, courage and respect have shaped Rowena's identity embuing a passion for learning and self-development. Starting new challenges   Using the tools of being an athlete to embrace new challenges and learn new skills. Breaking new tasks into logical, systematic pieces.   References You can find out about Rowena's business here: https://partnership.sjp.co.uk/partner/goldenbirchesfinancialplanning.I chose Rowena's book: How Much is Enough: Money and the Good Life by Edward Skidelsky and Robert Skidelsky.

In this episode, I change our standard interview format and reflect upon the concept of bravery. Not being a brave person myself, I've been inspired by the bravery of my guests, and this episode features two astonishingly courageous women.The first is Angela Bently, a certified Wim Hof instructor who channels her passion for the cold to support people with their physical, mental and emotional health.Angela works tirelessly to overcome her anxiety to become a beacon and guide to those who want to be brave but need a helping hand.  Bravery can manifest itself in many ways. One of my bravest guests was the artist Kate Hughes, who talked fearlessly of her battle with the depression she suffered after she was prescribed the mini pill after the birth of her second child. Her reflections on her debilitating depression and her incredible creative drive reveal her to be a true warrior.  ReferencesReach Angela Bentley at:  https://theicewarrior.com/Reach Kate Hughes at Outside The Lines Art Group Outside The Lines Art Group | FacebookReach me at my website: https://www.ifannecan.com/

My guest today is Oonagh McDonnell, the founder of It's Her, a social enterprise based in Manchester that researches, develops and delivers collaborative and engaging activities, courses and workshops that support women and help them change their narrative.Oonagh's story is rooted in adapting to adversity and overcoming loss, beginning with her mother's death when she was eight years old, which left her feeling responsible for three younger siblings.  After studying at Manchester University, she developed a love for the city and the diverse voices of the women who call Manchester home. The devastating loss of her sister necessitated Oonagh to completely change her career,  shifting her focus and seeking opportunities in the Middle East that would not have been available in the UK.  Her experience observing women in Saudi Arabia who forged their life, despite their obstacles sharpened her focus on the still considerable barriers to equity in the UK. Oonagh founded It's Her, a social enterprise aiming to enable all women to achieve equity.  Oonagh believes that when women put themself in a position to thrive, the whole family and society, in general, reap the benefit. Reference You can find out more about Oonagh's enterprise It'sHer: www.itsher.ukThe Book I chose for Oonagh is Three Women by Lisa Taddeo. 

In this episode, we celebrate the importance of accessing green space and consider the historical actions of others and how these actions made it possible for us to enjoy the ability to ramble in the countryside.These conversations were recorded over the Kinder Mass Trespass 90th anniversary weekend in the High Peaks of Derbyshire in Hayfield village hall.I want to thank Joss Underwood from the Tent People, who organised a fantastic pop-up event on the village green in Hayfield and generously introduced me to today’s guests, Helen Darby, Dorothy Collins and  Kate Ashbrook. Ninety years ago, members of the young communist league gathered at Kinder Scout here in Derbyshire, to highlight the fact that walkers were denied access to areas of open country. When the group reached the plateau of Kinder Scout, there were violent scuffles with gamekeepers. As a result, six ramblers were arrested. They received jail sentences ranging from two to six months for offences relating to violence involving the keepers.According to the Hayfield Kinder Trespass Group website, this act of civil disobedience was one of the most successful in British history. It arguably led to the passage of the National Parks legislation in 1949[8] and helped pave the way for establishing the Pennine Way and other long-distance footpaths. Walkers' rights to travel through common land and uncultivated upland were eventually protected by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act (CROW Act) of 2000. ReferenceReach Helen Darby  on Instagram @helenlouisedarby or at their website www.helendarbypoetry.com Follow Kate Ashbrook's blog here: https://campaignerkate.wordpress.com/Castlefield viaduct: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castlefield-viaductFind out more about the Tent People:  www.thetentpeople.co.ukHayfield Kinder Trespass Group: https://kindertrespass.org.uk/  

Sue France helps women in business make the best connections and is the founder of sue France Creative Connecting in Cheshire.She says, " I instinctively know who to match with who, and every day there is a new success story within my group."She has lovingly built a tribe of interconnected women who joyously build relationships.  I joined Sue at one of her networking events held at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre and chatted with her to learn more about her thoughts about networking, and how she injects so much joy into the process. I also spoke to those attending the event to find out what they thought about networking, and we even gave the dreaded elevator pitch a go!Here are the highlights of our conversationsSue France Web: https://suefranceccc.com/Why there is no joy in old-style networkingHaving to wear a delegate badge and then enter the room to sink or swim with a group of strangers.Emphasis on selling, not  on listening Elevator pitches with no help are very scary!   What does Sue do to encourage people to enjoy networking There is no  pressure to perform Huge emphasis on relationship building which continued even through COVIDMaking events accessible to everyone regardless of age or businessVoices from Sue's networking event  Fiona Drake coachInstagram:  Fiona_Drake_CoachingWeb: www.fionadrake.com#The Adventure Chronicles Fiona Drake is the 'adventure mentor' on a quest to awaken your spirit of adventure, so you fall madly in love with midlife.Fiona's thoughts on networking Networking brings the intrinsic human desire to belong, connect and collaborate. Most people are beneficial, but it's essential to be you at an event, and you will find those who are aligned with you and your values. Claire LucasInstagram: Claire_Lucas_hypnotherapyWeb: www.clairelucastherapies.comClaire is a clinical hypnotherapist who specialises in weight reduction, stress, anxiety, fears, phobias and business confidence.Claire's thoughts on networking Attending a supportive event fulfils the need to connect  Networking is hugely important when you run a  solo business as it replaces the relationships you would otherwise build with colleagues. Sarah OsborneInstagram: @sonutritionLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarah-Osborne-52b37677Sarah was inspired to study and founded her business, So Nutrition, following personal experiences in her family.  Sarah's thoughts on networking Networking is vital to growing a new business. Networking when you have a business is very different to networking in the corporate world.  Helen Greenwood Instagram: helengreenwoodcreativeHelen is a Canva training and creative content coach, helping women in business attract more clients by creating scroll-stopping visual content in Canva. Helen's tip for networkingCanva business card - a practical solution for connecting electronicallySarah  Pickleswww.sarahepickles.ukSarah is an inspirational speaker, author and beauty school founder. Her mission is to help and empower women giving hope and celebration through education and transformation. Sarah's thoughts on networking  It is worth making an effort to attend a networking event as, inevitably, you will find a  positive connection. 

Making an event Special  My guest today is Toni Dudsak, a business leader currently working as the Executive Director of the Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce in New York.Toni is a force of nature with tremendous energy, and this, combined with her strategic insight, ensures any organisation she is associated with is propelled to new heights.Toni also has the gift of organising elegant, fun events that flow beautifully without a hint of stress or sloppiness.Here are some of the highlights of our conversation.  One hand washes the other.Be there for anyone who needs assistance.  Being open and giving will pay dividends when you need to call on others for help.   Bringing people together to make an event a successAppreciate everyone who has helped.Make sure you celebrate and talk about the event.Invite people in and allow them to contribute.Cookie Baking AppreciationMake a personal thank you to the people who have helped you or your organisation.Make appreciation  a team event.Develop a team ethos to encourage strong relationships. Developing communityBeing careful not to exclude anyoneForging community through events  Creating an event at homeThe Italian culture of sharing food Learning to be a generous host Sharing what you have made and opening your door to others.Developing the confidence to host an event.Planning is keyStart small and think about what you are comfortable with Keep it simpleBuild up confidence and progress onto more significant events.Bringing people together in your home shows you who you are and that you are comfortable in your skin.    Perfection does not exist; you can only do your best. The details of an event.Small details do make a big difference.Personal touches are appreciated.Be open and talk to people.What do you want to share?Let people contribute if they want to. ReferenceYou can learn more about Toni here: linkedin.com/in/toni-dudsak-1132a34

Alka Chandiramni is a global mobility specialist who provides deeply trusted assistance to companies and individuals, helping to ensure that a move to another country is successful for everyone.In Alka's professional life, she is the one who offers advice and has the answers. This podcast explores how we can all deal with the inevitable times when we face adversity. Creating a roadmap to visualise the road aheadDealing with people who are not at their bestHelping people see outside themselves to regain focus and find the answers within themselves.Creating a bridge for people to reach the other side Practising what you preach and being authenticChanging your storyGrowth mindset to embrace changeRecognising change Your vibe is your tribe - the importance of surrounding yourself with positive people, especially when dealing with adversity. Personal adversity- Alka's accident in BaliThe kindness of peopleGiving up controlSometimes you don't see the bigger purposeLearning to see what will enfoldDeveloping patience and walking before you can runReaching out to others when you are the one who usually has the answersThe kindness of strangersSmall acts can have a significant impactFinding strength from withinNot letting people's negativity impact upon you  You have responsibility for your actionsDealing with loss through a creative practice Playing the cards you are dealtThe fallacy of perfectionismOvercoming the urge to be perfect References The book I bought for Alka's son, Vihan: A Portrait of The University of ManchesterYou can find out more about Alka here: linkedin.com/in/alkachandiramanisingapore  

My guest today is Kate Pollitt, a business coach gifted at helping others to get out of their jars to see what is written on their labels.  We talk about how time is finite and how important it is to recognise what makes you unique and connect with what lights you up.Once you do this, especially if you have a light touch and have faith in yourself, you make better choices in all aspects of your life.   Recognising what makes people and businesses different - using this as the bedrock of the creative and strategic processHow Kate uses this built-in intuition to reveal people's secret sauce. How she brings everything together in images and words to show the big picture.  Why can't people see their qualities? Being in a jar and not seeing the label Jeanine  Coombs and  John Asperien's work encompasses the notion that people are good at seeing other people's strengths but terrible at seeing their own  Stepping out of your head and seeing what others see. Negativity biasThe danger of negativity clouding our vision and recognising what makes us unique.  Opening yourself up and asking other people what they think you bring to the table.How to build a picture to see your qualities.How to connect with your qualities.Anxiety and perception People's worlds have become smaller.Beginning the process of stepping out of your head and reaching out to others.Quieting the voices in your head.Keeping hold of the joy of life and living life lightlyLooking at things with a lighter heart and less fear.Approaching things with a lighter touch and having faith in yourself.Tackling difficult thingsLists and Trello to keep things organised Doing what lights you up gives clarity and confidence.What is it that lights you up?Using stories from your life to reveal what lights you upTaking the opportunity to spend time connecting to what we love doingLetting go of what we struggle with Steering toward the lightReferencesThe book I bought Kate: Who Moved My Cheese? Dr Spencer JohnsonYou can find Kate here: www.desirebranding.uk

My guest today, Tina Kirwin-McGinley, is a teacher of the deaf and has worked in schools in Manchester for over thirty years. She is also a swimmer, cyclist and dear friend to many.We could talk about all of the above attributes, but I want to focus on Tina's gift for making life better for everybody by always leaving a place better than how she found it.We talk about -  Taking responsibility for things that are broken in the local neighbourhood; The  Planters ProjectNoticing what is wrong Taking responsibility to make things rightAsking  the right questions Making things more beautiful so everyone can benefitBeing the person who notices and puts things rightDeciding not to turn a blind eyeBeing persistent enough to take consistent  planned steps and following up.Making the time for a long term commitment and persevering. Planning the steps to take and overcoming resistence - Playing FieldTransforming a derelict space and seeing the potentialSharing tasks amongst others  and addressing concerns.Persevering  Creating something beautiful and attending to the detailsThe quiet satisfaction of keeping the space beautiful as a gift to othersThe satisfaction of taking action with others - womblingThe choice to be the person who makes the neighbourhood a better place to live Why don't people help?Being active and notice thingsMaking your voice heard and ask why?Civic Responsibility and pride where people live, work, and travelWhose responsibility is it to fix things?What steps can individuals take?Improving things for others and for yourselfDirecting Energy into something that might make a positive difference for everybodyThe contact importance of thinking about the next stepsMapping a course of directionNurturing of community and friendshipThe importance of loyalty and long term engagementBeing patientReferencesThe book I gave to Tina was Ikigai, The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life: Hector Garcia and Francesc Mirales  

My guest today is Sandra Phinney, and she has lived many lives, from teaching to social work to owning a music store and farming. Now in her 70s, Sandra is earning her living as a writer and has no intention of retiring. She lives off-grid with her husband on the Tusket  River outside the town of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada, in a place called Caanan, population eleven. They built their own home twenty years ago, the roof still stands, and their marriage survived. One of Sandra's greatest joys is to paddle her canoe in the wilderness.We talk about her incredible sense of home and her love for her environment and community.   How to find the heavenly invisibles in the heavenly visiblesMary Oliver's poetry and looking beyond the obvious. The importance of natureUsing all your senses, not just your eyes.Recording things is not enough; empathy is also vital. CommunityCultivating the broader community and a sense of family. How living in the wilderness does not mean you have to be a hermit.Finding Interest in your local community.Finding fascinating people and activities in your local environment.Unexpected and fascinating friendships. Concern for the environmentTaking a stance, especially with concern for the waterways and forests. The consequence of taking a stance.Learning from the community and taking care of each other.The Building of Bella The joy of building a canoe and handing it down to the next generation. ReferencesMary Oliver: PoetThe Book I bought for Sandra: Derek Jarman: Modern NatureYou can find out more about Sandra's work here: www.sandraphinney.comSandra Phinney BioSandra’s byline has appeared in over 70 publications from regional magazines and newspapers such as The Chronicle Herald and Saltcapes Magazine, to national publications including The Toronto Star, Subaru’s Six Star, The United Church Observer, Canadian Geographic, AAA Living, and The Conservator (Nature Conservancy of Canada.) Sandra started her freelance career at age 54—twenty-three years ago. She didn’t have a clue; she just knew she had to figure out how to earn a living as a writer. (Her former lives included teaching, social work, owning a music store, and farming.) Now, a septuagenarian, she’s still earning her living as a writer, with no intention of retiring, although she’s also dabbling in the realm of writing personal essays and trying to find markets for those along with her mainstream stories.   She’s penned four non-fiction books:·       Risk Takers and Innovators: Great Canadian Business Ventures since 1950 (Altitude Publishing, 2004) ·       Pierre Elliott Trudeau: the prankster who never flinched (Jackfruit Press, 2006)·       Maud Lewis and the “Maudified” House Project (Hawthorne Lane Publishing, 2014)·       Waking Up in My Own Backyard: Explorations in Southwest Nova Scotia (Pottersfield Press, 2018) To satisfy her craving to teach, Sandra gives writing workshops on various topics such as memoir and travel writing.  She lives off the grid with her husband, Barrie MacGregor, on the Tusket River outside of the town of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, in a place called Canaan (population 11). They built their own home 20 years ago; the roof is still standing, and their marriage survived. Sandra is a member of The Writer’s Union of Canada (TWUC), Travel Media Association of Canada (

Tina Devine is a  traveller, free spirit and coach. She has lived in ten different countries and has learned to be comfortable with change and making a home in other places.We are exploring the concept of home, especially if we deal with change.We discuss what home means and how gaining a better understanding of yourself will lead to better choices when dealing with the upheaval of finding or being in a new home.  Making a homeYou can make a home even if you are only a resident for a short time.Connect with the familiar and with established friendships to ease the transition. Deal with transitory relationships by being present and connecting with the day.Find things you are passionate about and are a regular part of your identity.  Get outside and do something to find connections. Take time to notice what is in front of you Doing rather than beingThe beauty and magic of being fully present The importance of the one-mile circuit and savouring your surroundingsSigns and synchronicity Understanding and seeing the shadows in your unconsciousChange as a spark to learning and acceptance. Sitting with yourself and not judging. Not fighting nature to gain a better understanding of the subconscious.The magic is beyond the shadows. ChoicesMoving beyond, I don't know.Practising making choices without consequences. Taking responsibility and not abdicating choice to somebody else.Being open to invitation and possibilityDesire and finding a wayUnderstanding your internal guidance system and having the power of your conviction. Tapping into what your body and mind are telling you.The Book I gave Tina was: A Fortune Teller Told Me: Earthbound Travels in the Far East: Tiziano Terzani. You can find out more about Tina at:  www.devineintentions.com.Tina Devine's BioTina Devine is of Irish heritage, born in Germany and currently residing in Mexico where she continues with her global adventure to explore her creative spirit and find the perfect night of salsa dancing! Tina is an Award winning Creatrix, Artist, Published Author, Entrepreneur and energy practitioner. She is a self taught artist, who co-creates art with her clients to energetically activate fast, deep and transformative healing. Artistically, Tina combines energy and intentions with abstract acrylic pouring and brushwork to create and channel her art in a flow state.As a living example of her work, Tina supports those ready to raise their energetic vibration to step into the life they most desire.Her magic lies in seeing you, your potential and your dreams not yet imagined.    

My guest today is Mindy Cowap, founder of the M Project and a  finalist of the 2022 Enterprise Vision Awards Inspirational Woman of the Year.   Seven years ago, after her mother's devastating subarachnoid haemorrhage, Mindy felt lost and decided to improve her health and vitality. The experience was transformational and Mindy felt compelled to share her rejuvenation with others. We talk about Finding who we are supposed to beThe joy of discovering strength and capability.Developing an  I can attitude.Harnessing energy to try new things in midlife.Not asking others to do what you wouldn't do yourselfBeing a motivator and inspiring others to take part.Being willing and unafraid to be vulnerable. Providing a toolkit for others to thrive.Developing strength. Midlife loss of confidenceChange of circumstances and hormonal shifts. Using a transformational period to flourish.Changing attitudes to ageing.Stepping into yourself and embracing a different identity.New experiences and the energy of menopause.The Expectation EffectHow your expectations can transform your life.Things can turn out well if you expect them to.Having a go at something you may not expect to do well at.Shaking off limiting beliefsThe importance of movementBuilding strength and looking after your bone density.Keeping hold of your muscle mass and being physically fit.Getting women moving.Dance challenges, connection and fun!      You can find out more about the M Project here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/themprojectmovementThe book I bought for Mindy was:  The Expectation Effect: by David Robson  Mindy Cowap BiographyMindy Cowap is the founder of The M Project and The M Project Movement.  "I am on a mission to show women that as we reach midlife and beyond, we can breathe life into life!  Often feeling lost, restricted or trapped by hormone shifts, roles & responsibilities and more, we can lose our identity and our joy for life.The M Project is a toolkit to flourish with all the experts with the added value of opportunity to experience alongside that.  This isn't a pain-point-chasing menopause group, this is a movement, a sisterhood for enrichment and empowerment.  We have one life and we can breathe life into that life!  The M Project has a Movement, it is a private Facebook group.  A free, safe space for women to connect, to be inspired, to be educated and to have fun!”

Hold On Pain Ends: Naomi Gilmour: Motivational Speaker, Business Woman and Suicide Prevention AdvocateIf you are lucky enough to live into mid-life and beyond, you will likely have experienced some profound loss. My guest this week, Naomi Gilmour, has taken the brave step of facing the debilitating grief of loss and, in the process, rebuilt her sense of self and now shares her learnings with others. Before we recorded this week’s episode Naomi and I went for an early morning dip in a lake. It was pouring with rain, but a beautiful rainbow lit the sky when the clouds parted. Rainbows are especially symbolic for Naomi, and we both believed that the spirit of her beloved brother, Nick was there with us at that moment. Please put your hand on your heart  and allow yourself a slither of happiness as you listen to Naomi’s story. Naomi and I discuss  How diversity and loss have shaped Naomi’s understanding of her purpose Stripping back the layers to recover a sense of self and heal. How Inner work has connected to who Naomi is, what she is here to be and what brings her joy and making no apology for this.  Finding purpose in pain and creating an impact.     The Importance of being alone and cultivating inner peaceLoneliness; learning to be alone and silence the mind.The importance of stepping backMaking time to reframe work The fear of what people think and getting over external judgement and validation.The importance of self and inner peace and how looking to the outside won't make you happy.   Being happy in the moment. Slithers of HappinessThe joy of small signs in day-to-day lifeEnjoying micro-momentsAnchoring into things.AnchoringFeeling comfortable in uncertain times.Dropping anchor to stabilise yourself and looking towards a lighthouse. Using a token to remind us that everything is always in flux, and this too shall pass. The Significance of Your HandsOur hands have been with us for a lifetime.Naomi's definition of hope - Hold On Pain Ends.How to drink life whilst it's fizzy. ReferencesNaomi’s Book: Love You Love Your Life https://www.amazon.co.uk/Love-You-Your-Life-Discover-ebook/dp/B09YKWHV6WYou can find Naomi here: https://www.happyhearthq.com/about/https://iamnaomivictoria.com/ The book I gave to Naomi: is Extreme You Step Up. Stand Out. Kick-Ass. Repeat. Sarah Robb O’HaganNaomi victoria Gilmour Biography. Naomi inspires and entertains audiences with her keynote talks about life lessons, resilience and reframing. Her life has been far from plain sailing, and she uses her first-hand experience to help others.

Some podcasts are transformational, and this is one of them for me. In today’s episode of the If Anne Can podcast, I’m talking to Kim Gowland, and she explains the difference between change and transition. A process that can be bewildering and confusing for many of us.  Kim and I discuss  The difference between change and transitionChange is external, something happening to us, e.g. change of job or having a baby. Transition is the psychological process brought about by change.    The Process of TransitionLetting go: E.g. of identity or something we loveNeutral zone: we know we’ve let go, but we don’t know what’s next. This is where people feel confused.New beginning: this comes at the end of the process after the work to achieve clarity is completed.Looking for MeaningTransition as a joyful journey if approached with a  spirit of curiosity Rediscovering values, finding confidence and a sense of purposeTaking ActionStaying accountable and generating momentumTaking responsibility and being proactiveUnderstanding procrastinationLooking out for signs and being alert for things to emergeThe paradox of choiceUnderstanding transition as a life skillEnjoying the journey ReferencesThe Book Kim mentioned: Transitions; Making Sense of Life's Changes: William Bridges.The book I gave to Kim: Range: how Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World: David EpsteinKim Gowland's BioExecutive and Leadership Coach. Brilliant Transitions Coach.  I coach senior leaders in the cultural and public sectors, to help them navigate change and transition and be more confident and inspired in their careers. Alongside my own work under Kim Gowland Coaching, I am an Associate Coach for North West Employers, coaching senior leaders working in the local authorities across Greater Manchester and the North West region. I am also an Associate Coach for Lois Burton Ltd and People Make it Work, coaching clients in the cultural sector including at Tate and Coventry City of Culture.1-1 Brilliant Transitions CoachingMy 1-1 Brilliant Transitions coaching programme helps clients navigate personal or professional change and transition and build new confidence, meaning and inspiration in their careers and wider lives. I have helped clients leave jobs or careers that no longer serve them and find delight in a new professional path, to create a better work-life balance for themselves and their families, to rediscover their confidence, creativity or sense of adventure. My job is to help my clients to feel more in control and empowered, and to work with them so they move from a place where they feel stuck, confused, unhappy or helpless to feeling clearer, happier, more confident, more authentic and more able to fulfil their potential.  I also run occasional Brilliant Transitions workshops, the next one will most likely be in January 2023.·         You can find out more about me on my website https://kimgowlandcoaching.com·         Join my facebook group Brilliant Transitions  www.facebook.com/groups/brilliantransitions·         Email me on kim@kimgowlandcoaching.com  Tel: 077252 69069    

At this time of year many expat families are moving back to their home countries, and some will find repatriation harder than expatriation.    In today’s episode of the If Anne Can podcast , I’m talking to Amanda Jaffe about the challenges of repatriation. Amanda and I were expats in Singapore, and we repatriated to our home countries during the pandemic, me to the UK and Amanda to the USA. We returned home with new identities, which meant we had to change our lives.  This is a great listen for anyone who is facing repatriation or who has repatriated in the last few years.Amanda and I discuss  Home·         The difficulties of re-engaging with home after a period away where your role and identity have entirely changed. ·         Overcoming  feelings of dislocation.·         Walking as a way of grounding yourself and rediscovering your surroundings.  ·         The need to discover new activities.   Identity·         Preserving a hard-won new identity.·         Making what you experienced as an expat relevant to your return.·         The importance of enjoying each day and not being too focused on the future.·         Giving yourself time to reacclimatise  but at the same time being open to new experiences and opportunities.·         Overcoming the physical shock of returning to a new climate. Community·         The joy of finding one friend. ·         Activating networks. ·         Looking  for ways to engage and reach out.·         The impact of turning up.·         Finding someone who would miss you if you didn’t show up, even if that takes some time.·          Remember to have fun! ReferencesYou can find out more about Amanda at: www.amandajaffewrites.comThe book I gave to Amanda: Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times: Katherine May Amanda’s biography        My guest today is Amanda Jaffe. Amanda spent thirty years working as a lawyer in Washington DC and New Jersey, but in 2018, she moved with her husband to Singapore and got the opportunity to ‘finally begin writing.’First, a blog for friends and family, and then, with the encouragement of the American Women’s Association of Singapore Writers’ Group, she began to publish articles.Just as she was cementing her new identity, she had to move back to her home in New Jersey and then to California.She has maintained a creative writing practice and has taken the opportunity to combine writing with work and volunteering in the non-profit sector.Amanda’s writing focuses on narratives that convey a strong sense of location and dislocation, and as a returning expat, she says ‘finding my cadence has been unexpectedly challenging.’     

An early memory of a cruel teacher left me dreading the thought of ever trying to create an artwork.Meeting Kate Hughes and attending one of her art classes changed my mind, so I was delighted when she agreed to be a guest on this podcast.I thought our conversation would revolve around how she escaped the restraints of school teaching and smoothly moved to create her art studio, but it proved to be so much more.Kate talks movingly about how being prescribed the mini pill after the birth of her second child led her to suffer debilitating depression and anxiety. She had to leave her teaching job and relocate to Manchester. Throughout her suffering, she trusted her innate bravery and focused on creating art.Kate happened to see a Facebook post where she learned that one of the side effects of the mini-pill was depression. Within days of coming off the medication, Kate regained her health.She uses her energy to share her love of art with others.Her classes are both energizing and cathartic, and if you can get to her Manchester studio, I urge you to sign up. After all, if Anne Can ……..ReferencesReach Kate Hughes at Outside The Lines Art Group Outside The Lines Art Group | Facebook |  | Outside The Lines Art Group | FacebookThis is a safe space for you to explore your creativity. A group to enjoy and celebrate processes, techniques an...The book I chose for Kate is: Keep Going; 10 Ways To Stay Creative In Good Times And Bad: Austin KleonThe Book Kate chose for me is: Bloody Brilliant People: The Couples and Partnerships That History Forgot: Cathy Newman#art #mentalhealth #artclass #Outsidethelines #IfAnneCan