Stompcast

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.

In an incredibly vulnerable conversation, Roxie Nafousi joins Dr Alex on this week's stomp.Roxie opens up about her experience with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and how she’s constantly working hard to not let it define her.She also shares why self awareness is integral to anyone’s healing journey, and steps you can take to begin reframing how you see the world.Follow Roxie and pick up her new book, Manifest: Dive Deeper. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Roxie Nafousi owes everything she has to manifesting, so in part 2 she breaks down the 7 steps of manifestation. Roxie explains the misconceptions of manifesting and why it’s more achievable than it seems. She also shares how manifesting helped her come through her addiction and battle with self loathing.Follow Roxie and pick up her new book, Manifest: Dive Deeper. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this walk with Dr Alex and Roxie Nafousi, they dive into their views on hedonism, and whether you need to have ‘partied hard’ in your 20s in order to settle into a wellbeing focussed life. Plus, Roxie shares her biggest life lessons around self reflection, and not worrying about being liked by everyone you meet. Follow Roxie and pick up her new book, Manifest: Dive Deeper. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drag Queen Kitty Scott-Claus is ditching the heels for some more stomp friendly shoes to join Dr Alex on this week's episode. Kitty, or as less people may know them, Louis Westwood, shares how getting out for walks was vital in her preparation for RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and her experience of first stepping into drag as a Girls Aloud tribute act.Kitty also dives into the differences of personality being in and out of drag, and how Kitty can often get away with much more than Louis can... Follow Kitty Scott-Claus @kittyscottclaus Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the second part of this stomp, Kitty Scott-Claus reminisces and shares behind the scenes details of her time competing on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. She takes us through why it took a month to film her audition tape, the long shoot days, and the discovery that despite being a runner-up she’s not actually that competitive. Follow Kitty Scott-Claus @kittyscottclausFor support with suicide, speak to the Samaritans Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the walk comes to a close, Kitty Scott-Claus reflects on life after Drag Race, and the highs and lows that come after being on the biggest drag show in the world. Kitty and Alex also discuss the societal view of the gender spectrum, as well as embracing your identity and why it’s important to take your time when discovering who you truly are. Follow Kitty Scott-Claus @kittyscottclaus Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Alex is up north this week with rising musician Michael Aldag, in the beautiful Sefton Park in Liverpool.Michael shares how he accidentally rose to TikTok fame with his hilarious observations, how he’s been able to share his music through this new found audience, and how it eventually led to him signing to Universal Music.Alex and Michael also discuss how personality and social media has become a massive part of promoting music, and why it’s difficult to split the two.Follow Michael @michaelaldag and listen to his new EP Socializing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Continuing the stomp with a soggy foot, Dr Alex dives deeper into the stories behind Michael Aldag’s music, and how he turns life experience into hit records. Michael explains how he can’t take his work too personally once it’s released, including how it led to getting very emotional on stage. Michael also shares his thoughts on never fully knowing how to handle the impact he has with his work.Follow Michael @michaelaldag and listen to his new EP Socializing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the final part of this walk in Sefton Park, Michael Aldag tells us how he made the “massive decision” to drop out of university to pursue music full time. Michael explains the benefits he found from structure at school, compared to the unpredictability of the music industry – and how he still prefers early nights compared to the traditional rock star lifestyle.Follow Michael @michaelaldag and listen to his new EP Socializing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Alex is joined by beloved broadcaster, Angela Scanlon, on another crisp winter walk.Angela shares how she always resisted routine before lockdown forced her into it. An interruption from a little nearby stomper brings up a conversation about ‘snow plough’ parenting, how being a parent helps you reflect on your own upbringing, and how, no matter how hard you try, you won’t get everything right.Follow Angela @angelascanlon and pick up a copy of Joyrider here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning: this episode discusses eating disordersIn part 2, Angela opens up about the eating disorder she developed in her teens, the shocking response when she sought help at her local GP, and why she was afraid to talk about it publicly. She also shares the coping techniques that have helped her come to terms with the difficult times, and how to look for hope. Follow Angela @angelascanlon and pick up a copy of Joyrider here.Links:www.marinotherapycentre.comwww.beateatingdisorders.org.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this stomp with Angela Scanlon, she takes us through her compelling career journey – from starting in fashion, to hosting a documentary exploring gingerism.Angela also shares the inspiration behind her book ‘Joyrider’, why gratitude is integral to her mental wellbeing, and the mantras and reminders she loves, that you can start practising today.Follow Angela @angelascanlon and pick up a copy of Joyrider here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Even though Dry Jan is nearly over, we’re exploring soberness all year round, so Dr Alex is on a stomp in Battersea Park with Spencer Matthews.In part one, Spencer opens up about his struggle with alcohol, the signs of it becoming a problem and the turning point that led him to going sober. Spencer and Alex also discuss their thoughts on the terms ‘alcoholic’ and ‘sober’ and their inclusivity, and how to consider your relationship with alcohol.Follow Spencer @spencermatthewsLINKS:Alcohol Support from the NHSBrits spend a whole year of their life being hungover Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the second part of this week's stomp, Dr Alex and Spencer Matthews discuss what it’s like living sober, and how it’s often easier than it seems. Spencer shares how he built a brand around sobriety - his alcohol free spirit brand Clean Co.; as well as his thoughts on how his public perception has evolved from his Made in Chelsea days, with an insight into his time on the show. Follow Spencer @spencermatthews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re looking to create habits that you want to stick to, Dr Alex and Spencer Matthews dive into how getting outside of your comfort zone may be the key in the final part of this week's stomp.Spencer also shares his thoughts on fatherhood, and what concerns him about raising a child in 2023; and of course, our health fact of the week which is from the British Liver Trust. Follow Spencer @spencermatthews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To make this shock announcement, Team GB Gymnast, Ellie Downie, is speaking to Dr Alex exclusively, on a stomp in Battersea Park.Ellie won her first national gymnastics competition at 9 years old and has gone on to dedicate her life to the sport. In 2017, after competing in the 2016 Rio Olympics, Ellie became the first British gymnast to win the all-round title at the European Championships.Becoming a gymnast as decorated as Ellie takes immense time, dedication and support however in 2020, alongside her sister Becky who is also a Team GB gymnast, Ellie released a statement that described ‘abusive behaviours’ that became part of their daily life.This statement went on to change the course of Ellie’s career forever.In a bid to tell her side of the story, Ellie has chosen to speak exclusively on the Stompcast, to break the news of her major [email protected] to support:SamaritansMindRethink Mental IllnessSANEMental Health Foundation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Best known as the co-founder of wellness and feel-good-food brand ‘Deliciously Ella’, Ella Mills joins Dr Alex in Hyde Park on this week's episode. In part one, Ella and Alex dive right into their shared passion for wellbeing and the pressures of everyday life that often make it hard to look after ourselves. Ella shares the small achievable changes we can make to improve our mental and physical health, and why getting out in nature is so important to her. Follow Ella @ella.mills__ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trigger warning: there are mentions of suicidal thoughts in this episode, if you’d prefer not to listen please skip 22:45 - 23:25In part 2 of Ella Mills and Dr Alex’s stomp, Ella explains the story behind her health journey which led her to founding Deliciously Ella. Ella discusses the difficult times in her 20s when she was navigating her poor health, and how she eventually found food to be a huge game changer. She also shares the moments where she felt her lowest, and why accepting your illness can help your mindset.Head over to the Samaritans if you or someone you love needs help.Follow Ella @ella.mills__ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As this walk in Hyde Park comes to an end, Ella Mills and Dr Alex explain why you shouldn’t be afraid of discipline when it comes to your mental health.Ella talks about simple ways to form positive habits, how she wants to impart as much self confidence onto her children as possible, and the importance of self affirmations (even when they feel silly). Follow Ella @ella.mills__ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David Gandy, the model who is best known for being the face of iconic campaigns for the likes of Dolce & Gabbana, is joining Dr Alex on this week’s stomp in Richmond Park.In the first part, David shares how he managed to stand out in the crowded world of modelling, and how he’s learnt to not take rejection personally. They also discuss navigating food and nutrition as a model, and David reveals what’s in his stomping toolkit. You can follow David here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Dr Alex continues his stomp with David Gandy, David shares the story of how he landed the Dolce & Gabbana job that changed his career – and how a haircut almost stood in his way. David also explains the decision to start his own brand, how he stays true to his values, and the ethos behind his clothing brand: David Gandy Wellwear.You can follow David here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part, Dr Alex and David Gandy wrap up this stomp by discussing fatherhood, and David’s thoughts on his children being on social media. They also discuss body confidence, and the differences between what is attainable for each individual person. You can follow David here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy new year, Stompers! The start of the year often coincides with anxiety and stress about money – even without the cost of living crisis. So this week Dr Alex is joined by Gemma Bird, who is better known as ‘Money Mum’, for some frugal advice to start the year right. In this part, Gemma shares how she became mortgage free before reaching 40, why financial education is important, especially at school, and advice on where to start if you’re wanting to save. Follow Gemma @moneymumofficialLinks:National DebtlineCitizens Advice - Debt & Money Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2 of our walk, Dr Alex asks the Money Mum herself for her best tips on approaching financial health.Gemma offers advice for if you’re sick with worry when checking your bank balance, how to be more considerate with your spending, and why when you stop comparing yourself to others you can be much happier with what you already have.Follow Gemma @moneymumofficialLinks:Does money buy happiness study Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of Dr Alex and Gemma’s stomp, they discuss why it’s integral to always be putting money away if you can afford to. Gemma also talks about diverse places to put your money and all the different pots you can have; plus shares her view on whether young people should care about pensions. Follow Gemma @moneymumofficial Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On our Christmas stomp this week, Dr Alex is joined by the two people behind All On The Board, Ian Redpath and Jeremy Chopra.In part one, Ian and Jeremy share the story behind how All On The Board began by a manager putting them together on shift, and the famous faces who have featured. They also explain their love and passion behind their boards, and how it’s reached people far beyond the London tubes. Follow @allontheboard and buy their new book here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the rain starts to come down in part 2, Ian and Jeremy share how they use their platform to shed light on mental and invisible illness, and why it’s important to them. They also discuss their experiences of counselling and why talking about problems is crucial to begin healing. Finally, they share their most powerful messages they’ve received in response to their boards.Follow @allontheboard and buy their new book here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this stomp with Ian and Jeremy, Dr Alex asks why Christmas isn’t easy for everyone, and how we can navigate it if it’s a difficult time. Ian and Jeremy also share moments of kindness they’ve seen whilst working on the tube, and how they try to bring a little weirdness into their work. Follow @allontheboard and buy their new book here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Surgeon, lecturer and educator to 5 million people on TikTok, Dr Karan Rajan is joining Dr Alex for a beautiful snowy stomp in Greenwich Park.In part one, Karan and Alex share stories from long hours working in the hospital, the pressures and struggles Doctors and Nurses are constantly facing, and their thoughts on what needs to change in the NHS.You can follow Dr Karan on Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this second part walking through the snowy grass of Greenwich Park, Dr Karan shares the story of how he decided to become a doctor, and how his social media career manifested through his love of educating and teaching. Dr Karan also talks about how doing drama at school helped him in both of his careers; and the difficulties of balancing his work as a doctor, social media and home life.You can follow Dr Karan on Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final part of this week’s ‘Snowcast’ in Greenwich Park, Dr Alex and Dr Karan discuss the stresses and pressures doctors often face at work, and how they manage them. They also talk about facing the fragility of life whilst at work and why it’s important to always be kind on social media. Dr Karan also brings his own health fact of the week! You can follow Dr Karan on Instagram and TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer at 31, Lauren Mahon was determined to use her story and voice to support others living with cancer.Lauren founded the charity GIRLvsCANCER, and co-hosted ‘You, Me and the Big C’ with her best friends, the late Deborah James, and Rachael Bland.In this first part, you’ll hear Lauren and Dr. Alex stomping around Walthamstow Marshes, talking about Laurens's diagnosis, how her new dog Raymond has given her a refreshed perspective on the world and how she copes with loss and grief.You can follow Lauren here and GIRLvsCANCER here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.