Stompcast

Harry Trevaldwyn opens up to Dr Alex about the emotional and physical effect of recovering from a nasty accident he was in.Harry praises the hilarious nurse that kept his spirits up, he talks about his fear of losing work and Alex’s Health Fact of the Week starts a conversation about how to trick your brain into thinking nervousness is excitement. Follow Harry @harrytrevaldwyn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Presenter, podcaster and journalist Kate Thornton is joining Dr Alex George on a walk around Clapham Common for Stompcast this week. Kicking off part 1, Kate gets nostalgic about her time as a writer at Smash Hits, she explains how she ended up meeting the entire cast of Friends, and how she has navigated the evolution of technology within her career (remember pagers, anyone?!)Follow Kate @thekatethornton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2, Kate shares the incredible story behind her contribution to one of the most tragic moments in UK history, despite only having 7 hours of TV presenting under her belt. Kate also reveals the butterfly effect that led to her hosting Top of the Pops, the rise and fall of her time on X Factor, and why the fear of ‘the worst’ can cause more anxiety than ‘the worst’ actually happening. Follow Kate @thekatethornton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the stomp comes to a close, Kate Thornton shares how overcoming the harsh realities of life has taught her how capable she really is.Kate and Alex ponder how much failure teaches us, Kate explains what drove her to speak out against injustices at work, and Alex shares a warm weather-related health fact of the week. Follow Kate @thekatethornton Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Liberty X’s Michelle Heaton joins Dr Alex on this week's stomp in an exceptionally moving conversation.The singer, actor and presenter opens up about her addiction and alcoholism: she reveals the devastating effect alcohol had on her body, how it impacted her family and the turning point for her to seek rehab. She takes Alex to a bench of great significance in her journey, he shares why letting go is integral to anyone’s recovery journey, and how to relinquish control. TW: This episode discusses alcoholism and suicidal thoughts. Follow Michelle @wonderwomanshel and pick up her book Hot Flush and visit www.aa.org for further support. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2, Michelle Heaton explains why she has been so public about her addiction and recovery and Dr Alex and Michelle discuss when it’s appropriate to refer to yourself as ‘sober’. Michelle explains what Alcoholics Anonymous is actually like, the AA principle that recovery takes less energy than the pursuit of addiction, as well as an important message to the families and loved ones of addicts. Follow Michelle @wonderwomanshel and pick up her book Hot Flush and visit www.aa.org for further support. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At only 35, Michelle Heaton entered menopause and to wrap up this stomp, Michelle and Dr Alex discuss why identifying the early symptoms of menopause can have a huge impact. Michelle explains how she ended up going into early menopause, why it’s integral to educate all genders on the subject and the positives of seeking a male perspective from her husband. Follow Michelle @wonderwomanshel and pick up her book Hot Flush and visit www.aa.org for further support. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TV presenter and author Anna Richardson is taking Dr Alex on a stomp on Hampstead Heath this week.Anna and Alex discuss the reception of their show Naked Education, the changing landscape of public opinion and how to agree to disagree. Anna also shares her shocking experience with online trolls and Dr Alex offers some advice on how to handle angry feedback. Follow @annarichardso and listen to Anna’s brand-new podcast here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2, Anna Richardson shares the pivotal moment she was given the opportunity to move from producing to presenting, and how it transformed her life and career. Anna explains how she discovered hypnotherapy through ‘Supersize vs Superskinny’, what led her to train in it herself and details exactly how it works to unlock your subconscious mind. Follow @annarichardso and listen to Anna’s brand-new podcast hereLINKS:BMI and life expectancy fact check: Survival tip: Start at normal weight and slowly add poundsWhy being 'overweight' means you live longer: The way scientists twist the facts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this stomp, Anna Richardson and Dr Alex George discuss labels and how they can be seen to both help and hinder people. Anna explains how she has learnt to self-identify, shed expectations and prevent herself from being pigeonholed as well as how she’s found the courage to embrace change.Plus, Dr Alex shares a secret talent and the health fact of the week with a sad statistic about body image.Follow @annarichardso and listen to Anna’s brand-new podcast here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Children's author of over 100 books and creator of beloved characters, Dame Jacqueline Wilson is taking Dr Alex on a ramble in East Sussex. Fresh from winning a British Book award himself the previous night, Dr Alex is keen to discuss Jacky’s journey as an author, her childhood and the power of books. The pair discuss the teachers who believed in them, how fiction is a powerful tool for learning empathy and the importance of portraying realistic characters and their struggles. Plus, Jacky opens up about how she fought through negativity to pursue her childhood dream to become a writer.Follow @jacquelinewilsonfanclub and pick up a copy of her latest book The Magic Faraway Tree: A New Adventure Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2, Jacqueline Wilson reveals how her career started, how long it took her to call herself a writer and that she still has lingering imposter syndrome. Jacky tells Dr Alex about her writing process, her own personal connection to each character, and how she learnt to be in the moment after the monumental success of Tracy Beaker. They also discuss their mutual love of Enid Blyton’s The Faraway Tree Collection as well as how to persevere and stick at the thing you love. Follow @jacquelinewilsonfanclub and pick up a copy of her latest book The Magic Faraway Tree: A New Adventure Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After leaving school at 16 and moving to Scotland to become a journalist Jacqueline Wilson has gone on to sell over 40 million books in the UK alone - so what pearls of wisdom can she offer us? Jacky tells us how important it is to be bold and brave, how re-reading an old favourite book can help our mental health and the importance of reading stories that are in tune with your life. Plus, Dr Alex asks about the secret behind Jacky’s iconic jewellery.Follow @jacquelinewilsonfanclub and pick up a copy of her latest book The Magic Faraway Tree: A New Adventure Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Alex George is joined by his own GP, Dr Naomi Hill, to candidly share his experience of antidepressants and making the decision to no longer take them in this very special episode. In part 1, Alex shares the story that spurred him to speak to his doctor, the frustrating stigma that stops people from seeking support and how to overcome the ‘not being bad enough’ mentality. Plus, Naomi helpfully explains the process of a patient coming to their GP, the details that go into deciding next steps and if they should have medication. LINKS:Follow Dr Naomi’s surgery @grafton_square_surgery More information on antidepressants with the NHS Head over to the Samaritans if you or someone you love needs immediate help. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2, Dr Alex and Dr Naomi Hill explain how antidepressants actually work, using plenty of analogies! Alex explains the role of medication and his experience of Sertraline, before Naomi dives into what you might expect when you start using medication and offers insight on when things may start to feel better. LINKS:Follow Dr Naomi’s surgery @grafton_square_surgery Further information on SertralineMore information on antidepressants with the NHS Head over to the Samaritans if you or someone you love needs immediate help. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this stomp with Dr Alex’s GP, Dr Naomi Hill, they discuss the process of coming off antidepressants.Alex reflects on his decision and why he chose to stop taking medication, Naomi offers her advice on how to find the right support for you, and the health fact of the week sheds light on how many of us experience mental health issues but don’t ask for help. LINKS:Follow Dr Naomi’s surgery @grafton_square_surgery Silvercloud - Online self-referral CBTMore information on antidepressants with the NHS Head over to the Samaritans if you or someone you love needs immediate help. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Strictly dancer, influencer and author, Dianne Buswell is taking Dr Alex on a wild ramble in Sussex.In this part Dianne shares why she had to take a break from dancing and how it negatively affected her mental health, as well as how she discovered new kinds of movement. Dianne and Dr Alex then discuss how to find your passion and the huge change in Dianne’s career. Follow @diannebuswell and pick up a copy of her new book here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2, Dianne Buswell talks about teaching movement during lockdown and how it prompted her to write her book ‘Move Yourself Happy: 21 Days to Make Joyful Movement a Habit’, to help people explore different styles of movement. Dianne also attempts to teach Dr Alex the quickstep… (much to Rolo’s dismay!) before discussing the importance of learning to laugh at yourself. Side note… no Rolo’s were harmed in the making of this episode!Follow @diannebuswell and pick up a copy of her new book here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this stomp with Dianne Buswell, she shares how she’s embraced change; from leaving home at 18 to moving across the world to follow her dream career. Dianne explains how she deals with nerves, how she created a home in the UK while her family were in Australia, and how we can all find confidence through dancing. And of course, there’s the health fact of the week about how dancing improves brain health !Follow @diannebuswell and pick up a copy of her new book here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Entrepreneur, author and Forbes 30 under 30 recipient Grace Beverley is with Dr Alex this week. They’re on a very productive stomp but please note, Grace and Dr Alex battled with stormy weather on this one!In this episode, Grace discusses the frustrating expectations that women shouldn’t talk about their work; the shocking statistics showing how little money is going to female founded businesses; and how through TALA Grace is facing the oxymoron of sustainable fashion head on. Plus, as creator of the viral planner ‘the productivity method’, Grace shares her number one tip to avoid procrastination.Follow @gracebeverley Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TV presenter and Celebs Go Dating agent Anna Williamson joins Dr Alex George this week on a brisk walk in Braughing. Opening up in this first part, Anna shares how she began her career on CITV as a kids TV presenter, how that eventually led to a deterioration of her mental health, and why a colleague asking ‘are you alright?’ changed her life. Anna and Dr Alex also discuss the relief when you finally open up about your feelings, and why asking the right questions can support the people around you in their lowest times. Follow @annawilliamsonofficial Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2, Anna Williamson reveals how hypnotherapy and roleplay was a key part of recovery and rebuilding her mental health. Anna tells Dr Alex how hypnotherapy works, why it helped change her feelings around traumatic memories, and how rehearsing conversations before she returned to work prepared her to face anxiety inducing situations.Follow @annawilliamsonofficial Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Celebs Go Dating, Anna Williamson matches potential lovers while also supporting the celebrities through their previous relationship baggage – so what expert advice can she offer you for the modern dating world? Anna tells us how to date successfully online, why talking badly about an ex is a huge red flag, and why the perfect time to get marriage counselling is actually before you get married.Plus, Dr Alex asks how honest you should be about your mental health whilst online dating?Follow @annawilliamsonofficial Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Model, TV presenter and car obsessive Jodie Kidd is taking Dr Alex on a stomp in West Sussex this week.Jodie shares the iconic moment she achieved the Top Gear fastest celebrity lap only a short time after passing her driving test and how that led her into taking part in intense car rallies like the Gumball 3000.Jodie and Dr Alex also discuss how they balance social media and how it has both positively and negatively impacted their mental health. Follow @jodiekiddoffical Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2, Jodie Kidd talks about how important it is to take moments to stop and appreciate your achievements, no matter how big or small.Jodie also tells Dr Alex about the pub she saved and how it ended up being an unexpected community hub before talking about her YouTube channel ‘Kidd in a Sweet Shop’ where Jodie hosts her own car fanatic series.Follow @jodiekiddoffical Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this stomp with Jodie Kidd, she shares what she learnt from the gritty days of breaking into the fashion industry. Jodie explains how she learnt to face personal rejection based on her appearance, how that manifested into deep anxiety and panic attacks in her adulthood, and her coping techniques which allow the negativity to wash over her. Of course, there’s the health fact of the week about how driving is good for the brain!Follow @jodiekiddoffical Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TV presenter and broadcaster Yinka Bokinni is stomping in Battersea Park with Dr Alex this week, discussing their daring new Channel 4 series ‘Naked Education’. If you’re yet to hear of the show that’s hit the headlines, Dr Alex and Yinka explain why educating teens on naked bodies is imperative to growing up with positive body image; and they explore why Brits are so prudish when it comes to sex education. Yinka also talks about her decision to stop drinking and why you should never stand behind her if she’s holding a sambuca shot. Follow Yinka @yinkabokinni and watch Naked Education on Channel 4. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2, Yinka Bokinni opens up about her heart condition, including having open heart surgery as a baby. She talks about the heartbreaking impact that it had on her siblings and how it’s shaped the vivacious person she is today. Many people joke about “main character syndrome”, however Yinka explains how being the star of your own movie can have a huge uplifting impact on your energy and you just might start to believe it. Follow Yinka @yinkabokinni and watch Naked Education on Channel 4. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the walk comes to a close, Yinka shares with Dr Alex some inspiring advice and life lessons.Yinka explains why you can’t wait for opportunities to come to you, and where to begin when chasing your own dreams. She also talks about how she finds inspiration from her own life, reflecting on her upbringing as one of seven kids in a four-bed-flat. Finally, Dr Alex wraps up with the health fact of the week, which exposes a huge difference in how heart disease looks different for men and women.Follow Yinka @yinkabokinni and watch Naked Education on Channel 4. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ahead of Earth Day on the 22nd April, climate justice activist Mikaela Loach joins Dr Alex in Holland Park. Mikaela has just published her first book, graduated in Global Health Policy and is basking in the optimism of a sunny day's stroll with Dr Alex. In part one, the pair begin a solutions based conversation about the things we can be empowered to do when striving for a greener planet. Buy Mikaela’s new book ‘It’s Not That Radical’ here and follow @mikaelaloach Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re struggling with climate-anxiety, Mikaela Loach talks with Dr Alex about the small things we can do to make an impact and calm your worries at the same time. In the second part of this stomp, Dr Alex and Mikaela discuss the importance of fighting for a better future and how to feel optimistic about the state of our world. Mikaela also explains how you can use whatever skills you already have to be a part of action against climate change, and how it’s not the huge sacrifice it may seem. Grab a copy of Mikaela’s new book here and follow @mikaelaloach Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this stomp with Mikaela Loach, she explains how she approaches the negativity in the media around the climate crisis. Mikaela expresses her struggle in finding how ‘radical’ she needs to be, as the pair discuss the mottos that keep them afloat. She also speaks with Dr Alex about finding opportunities for change, the systems she wants to dismantle and how her work is forging a path for a brighter, equitable future for all. Grab a copy of Mikaela’s new book here and follow @mikaelaloach Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Podcaster, Author and former Made in Chelsea cast member, Caggie Dunlop is stomping with Dr Alex in the beautiful Holland Park.Caggie is well known for her podcast Saturn Returns, which is designed to guide it’s listeners through their late twenties - a time that can often bring periods of change and unrest to us while navigating our careers, relationships and personal development.In this part, Caggie shares how she ‘got stuck’ when she was heading towards turning 30 and how to trust that what happens in life, is meant for you.Pick up a copy of Saturn Returns, Caggies’ new book here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the second part of this stomp, Dr Alex and Caggie are discussing why our twenties may feel tumultuous and what we can do to soothe our anxieties.Caggie teaches Dr Alex what a Saturn Return is and shares how she felt through hers and what she did to overcome the discomfort that came along with it.Pick up a copy of Saturn Returns, Caggies’ new book here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this walk with Caggie Dunlop, you’ll hear Dr Alex and Caggie discussing the biggest lessons Caggie has learned to date.Caggie explains how astrology isn’t to be overlooked, even by the cynical! She also speaks with Dr Alex about how to handle relationship break ups and how she stopped playing the ‘blame game’ while embracing accountability.And of course, an interesting scientific health fact which shows how connected we are to the moon!Pick up a copy of Saturn Returns, Caggies’ new book here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feel good food columnist and best-selling cookbook author Melissa Hemsley is joining Dr Alex on this week's stomp. Melissa shares how she fell into her career as a private chef for Take That – she explains the events that occurred after a wobble with her school grades and how that led to her incredible achievements today. As both have ADHD, Melissa and Alex also discuss their unique perspectives and walking speeds. Follow @melissa.hemsley Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning: this episode discusses miscarriage In part 2, Melissa opens up about her pregnancy, and all the struggles she faced with her fertility. She shares how her miscarriage deeply affected her mental health, the problematic language often found in that conversation, and how it eventually led to her ADHD diagnosis. However, Melissa has also learnt to cherish the good days through the people she’s met on this journey, and candidly discusses her experiences of conceiving through IVF.Follow @melissa.hemsley Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this ramble through the hills, Melissa Hemsley shares the life lessons and rituals that have supported her through difficult times.Melissa explains why physically ‘shaking it off’ is a massive help for releasing her feelings and her favourite books and podcasts that contribute positively to her mental health.Plus, the health fact of the week sparks a discussion on IVF and Melissa’s advice if you’re on that journey. Follow @melissa.hemsleyLINKS: First, We Make the Beast Beautiful Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Alex is joined by TV presenter and farmer Jimmy Doherty at his farm and wildlife park ‘Jimmy’s Farm’ in this unique stomping experience. As they walk through the butterfly house and visit the lemurs, Jimmy reminisces on how his love for wildlife came about; the simple ways to connect with nature which help your wellbeing; plus why it’s integral to understand the value of your food. Jimmy also opens up about how farming helps him through tough times, as life always finds a way to return. Follow Jimmy @jimmysfarm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whilst feeding the monkey’s at Jimmy’s Farm, Dr Alex asks Jimmy about the small things we can do to help nature whilst curbing our climate anxiety. Jimmy also shares the struggles he faces as a parent when wanting to protect his children and get them out in nature; plus the moments that drove him to take more risks – like going into farming with no farming background!Follow Jimmy @jimmysfarm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this stomp around Jimmy’s Farm, Jimmy opens up about the loss of his dad; how he uses music to let his emotions out; and why we so often bottle up our feelings as Brits. Jimmy then challenges ‘anti-farming’ attitudes, and offers an insight on how the food system needs to change in the climate crisis battle. Follow Jimmy @jimmysfarm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Author, journalist and podcaster Elizabeth Day is joining Dr Alex on an honest stomp about true friendships and how to handle failure. In part 1, after they reminisce about their first meeting during a wholesome Love Island interview, Elizabeth and Alex deep dive into failure. Elizabeth explains how she learnt the definition through her own failures, and shares what she considers to be her biggest failure and how it’s shaped the rest of her life to date.Follow Elizabeth @elizabday and order her new book Friendaholic: Confessions of a Friendship Addict. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Elizabeth Day’s friends have been one of the most meaningful loves of her life, and in part 2 of this stomp with Dr Alex, they discuss the journey of writing her new book, ‘Friendaholic: Confessions of a Friendship Addict’.Elizabeth discusses why her friendships have greater meaning since the pandemic, the cost of having too many friends and how to identify if a friendship is good or bad for you.Follow Elizabeth @elizabday and order her new book Friendaholic: Confessions of a Friendship Addict. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this walk with Elizabeth Day and Dr Alex, Elizabeth explains how the first steps to dealing with failure is realising that everyone fails at some point. Elizabeth and Alex compare their failures in relation to their grief, plus Elizabeth offers advice on how you can start today with making new connections. Follow Elizabeth @elizabday and order her new book Friendaholic: Confessions of a Friendship Addict. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Musician Ellie Dixon can often be found running around in wild and whacky costumes to promote her self-produced, alt-pop songs for her 1.2 million followers on TikTok. In part 1, Dr Alex and Ellie discuss how she grew such a huge audience with her music, where she learned to produce music and why she’s been running around dressed as a lizard…They also discuss Ellie’s fears around losing her privacy when finding fame, how she’s managing to avoid the commercialisation that sometimes happens when an artist signs to a record label, and why in her opinion, social media has completely changed the music industry.Follow Ellie @elliedixonmusic and listen to Big Lizard Energy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Dr Alex continues his stomp with Ellie Dixon, she shares the slow motion moment she signed her record deal - dressed as an astronaut no less.They also discuss how she came to sign a contract with one of the world's biggest record labels and how she’s kept control of how she writes and produces. Ellie also dives into how she harbours her creativity, why it’s a muscle that needs to be exercised and the importance of embracing mistakes you make. Follow Ellie @elliedixonmusic and listen to Big Lizard Energy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this Stomp, Ellie opens up about her performance anxiety which left her unable to speak, and how she overcame it.Ellie and Dr Alex discuss learning when to reason with anxiety, how to acknowledge when you’re in ‘red alert’ mode and why acknowledging your fears can help you think more logically.Plus, Ellie reveals her bonkers ideas - which includes why she throws biscuits out to the crowd at her gigs!Follow Ellie @elliedixonmusic and listen to Big Lizard Energy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Johann Hari has authored books about depression and addiction but now, the 3-times New York Times best-seller has released Stolen Focus, about the shrinking of our attention spans.As Johann and Dr Alex stomp across the discontinued railway tracks of North London, Johann discusses experiments that have changed long-held beliefs about addiction such as Rat Park (aka heaven for rats) and he also shares the groundbreaking idea that the opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety, but connection. Johann tells Dr Alex tales from his research trips that allowed him to shape his theories. While travelling across the world, Johann learned about the societal effect of the Portuguese decriminalisation of drugs and why you should never eat unwashed fruit in Vietnam…If you suffer with mental health issues, you may find Johann’s approach to disorder, failure and breakdowns, somewhat refreshing. Follow Johann @johann.hari and buy his new book, Stolen Focus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2 of this stomp, Johann Hari shares the science behind why, much to many people’s disbelief, our focus isn’t getting worse – it’s being stolen.From the tech you use to the food you eat, Johann explains the surprising factors behind why you may not be able to pay attention like you used to.He also shares how a trip to Elvis’ house in Graceland with his godson showed him how difficult it is to escape the problem of distraction. Follow Johann @johann.hari and buy his new book, Stolen Focus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this stomp with Johann Hari and Dr Alex offer advice if you’re wanting to take back your focus and attention. Johann shares a shocking study about the damaging effects of being constantly distracted in the way many of us are every day, and the solutions that are being undertaken internationally to combat it. Follow Johann @johann.hari and buy his new book, Stolen Focus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.