The Diverse Minds Podcast

Welcome to the 155th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. As you know this month’s focus is all about the arts and mental health. So this week, we are delving deeper into the power of arts in practice, to join me in doing this is playwright Erinn Dhesi.About my guestErinn Dhesi is a playwright, performer and social media freelancer based in the West Midlands. Her work often focuses on topics such as social media, LGBTQ+ life and British Asian life, sometimes all at once, sometimes on their own.She is currently an Associate Artist at Chronic Insanity Theatre. Recently she wrote ʻQueensʼ an audio play with Tamasha Theatre and Holy Mountain Productions which delves in the colonial history of Royal Leamington Spa from the perspective of its British Asian diaspora.Within the last year, she has been part of the BBC Coventry Voices Writersoom. She was commissioned by The Young Vic for their 5 Plays with ʻRun to The Moonʼ. Her monologue ʻChangeʼ premiered at Tara Theatre as part of their new ʻ2020: Collection 1ʼ season.Errin's award-winning one-woman show ʻWigs Snatched, Perceptions Destroyed' about the effects of online influencer culture premiered at Vault Festival 2020, earning 4 Star reviews (A Younger Theatre & Broadwayworld.com). Her short plays Sesh (2019) and The Walk (2019) premiered at the Curve Theatre and her first full-length play ʻ#Adjustmentʼ received a rehearsed reading at the Belgrade Theatre (2017).In today’s show on Arts in PracticeAbout Erinn and the work she does. [02:24]Her journey into screenwriting and playwrighting. [08:08]What the term mental health means to her. [19:08]The biggest challenges for South Asian people working in the field of writing. [21:19]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [33:32] Quotes on Arts in PracticeI have always been naturally creative and curious about the world.I think a lot of my mental health experience has been coloured through me having ADHD and dyslexia.A lot of workplaces really need to step up on being able to accommodate burnout in a way that's useful, and doesn't alienate somebody,One of the things that has really helped me is exercising.I had a personal trainer, as I knew I needed a body double and a motivator. Someone who could organise things for me when it came to working out!Connect with Erinn for more on Arts in PracticeErinn on LinkedIn, Instagram and TwitterErinn's website Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to the 154th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month’s theme is all about the arts and mental health. So, in today’s episode, I review the book Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert.On today’s showWhy I decided to review the book, Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert. [01:12]A key part of this book. [02:01]Some of the key themes that I picked up within the book. [03:56]Why I do a podcast instead of writing a blog. [09:42]Some of the pitfalls of the book. [11:40] QuotesWe often forget that we are all creative beings, which is one of the tenants of this book.It's not about creating masterpieces. It's not about how to be the next big thing. It's not about how to monetize your creativity, but it's about the process.Fear keeps you rooted in inaction.We don't always have families that support us and champion us.There's no such thing as the greatest and the worst because of subjectivity and perspective.ResourcesLeave me an anonymous message on my SpeakPipeBig Magic By Elizabeth GilbertCheck out my course: The Mentally Healthy ProfessionalListen to Episode #153 How the arts support mental healthWork with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCJoin

Welcome to the 153rd episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month’s theme is all about the arts and mental health. So, in today’s episode, I talk about how the arts boost our mental health. On today’s showWhy I chose to talk about this topic. [00:44]The definition of the term "the arts" [01:28]Examples of "the art". [01:50]Some of the benefits of engaging in "the arts" for our mental health. [02:20]Some research that shows the benefit of engaging in "the arts". [04:35]QuotesEngaging in arts, social activities and interactions within our communities can really help with things like isolation and loneliness, premature ageing and feeling distance from the community.It has been shown that art engagement also alleviates anxiety, depression and stress.Research has shown that visual art promotes health, wellness and fosters adaptive responsive distress.Visiting museums can protect against Dementia development.Cultural activities encourage gentle movement, reduce social isolation and lower inflammation in the body.

Welcome to the 152nd episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.Today we're wrapping up the lived experience series, and I'm really delighted to be joined by Busayo Abidakun to talk about Impact Black and black leadership.About my guestBusayo is a certified coach, trainer and founder of Impact Black a social enterprise aimed at mobilising people’s skills and talent to help end racial injustice.He spent the early years of his professional career working in the non-profit sector supporting organisations in replicating and scaling services to prevent youth offending, helping develop radical approaches to maintaining health and wellness before moving into graduate recruitment helping people identify their talents and building fulfilling careers.Busayo is deeply passionate about bringing his multidisciplinary experiences to help shape and develop training programmes at Impact Black.In today’s showAbout Busayo Abidakun and the work he does. [01:54]How she became an academic. [02:59]What the term "leadership" means to him. [09:06]The barriers and challenges that are still there in the workplace for black staff. [13:28]His top 3 tips for looking after his mental health. [25:31] QuotesIn the UK, a lot of organisations are becoming more premium or open to having conversations about the challenges that black staff have.I think that there's a potential for change there.Visions of being able to help other people actually come from the sacrifices of people before me,if people are not able to do their jobs effectively, because they're thinking about how they need to be and or show up in general, that places a lot of pressure on them,There are several threads that need to be unravelled, to create the kind of equality that is necessary to be able to facilitate the changes that are needed. Connect with my guestBusayo on Twitter and LinkedInImpact Black on Twitter and InstagramImpact Black website Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCOne hour focused Sessions £150 1-2-1Power Hour Sessions for OrganisationsComplete the form to discuss your training needs: https://forms.gle/hgnYtmTu33Zeem489Check out my FAQs here: http://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/You can learn more about the coaching I do to support your wellbeing here. Subscribe to the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.If you enjoyed it, why not leave a review? You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Remember to tune in next week, where I’ll bring you more insights on mental health and inclusion.

Welcome to the 151st episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.The month of July is all about looking at lived experiences, what they mean and how they shape the world around us. I'm joined by the amazing Maya Goodfellow on this episode of the show.About my guest Maya GoodfellowMaya Goodfellow is an author, academic and broadcaster, specialising in the relationships between race, bordering and capitalism.She is currently Leverhulme Early Career Research Fellow at the Sheffield Political Economy Research Institute at the University of Sheffield.Her first book Hostile Environment: How Immigrants Became Scapegoats was published with Verso in 2019 and was longlisted for the Jhalak Prize.Maya received her PhD from SOAS, University of London in 2019. Maya has written for The Guardian and The New York Times, among others.In today’s show onAbout Maya Goodfellow and the work she does. [01:35]How she became an academic. [02:59]What the term "racial capitalism" means and why it's important to understand. [09:02]What workplaces can do to have conversations about racism. [23:08]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [26:01] Quotes onRacial capitalism provides us with the tools to think about how race can be produced through global capitalism.I like going open water swimming.If you can find anything in your life, that you can afford to do, do it.Burnout is real.One of the things that like keeps me going is finding people who are on the same page, and who want to fight for the same things. Connect with my guestMaya on Twitter and, Instagram Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to the 150th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month, we're talking about lived experience, and I'm delighted to be joined by Alan Reed.Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.Download the EPS-130-TranscriptDownloadAbout my guest Alan ReedAllan is an experienced Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) professional, working to improve diversity and inclusion in a variety of spaces for a decade beginning at University. Allan was the D&I Officer for Network Rail Scotland before seeking more experience by joining The Equal Group as an EDI Consultant.Allan identifies as non-binary and used they/them pronouns. They are passionate about ensuring that the world becomes a fairer and more just place for everyone. As a queer person with late-diagnosed ADHD, Allan has worked in a number of industries where they didn't feel safe to be themselves and couldn't access the support they needed, these experiences drive Allan to help organisations design and implement inclusion frameworks to improve the representation and wellbeing of their workers.In today’s show on Trauma Recovery through YogaAbout Alan Reed and the work he does. [01:58]The relationship between mental ill-health and culture. [05:27]Some of the biggest challenges for people who identify as queer when it comes to accessing support. [16:10]What workplaces can do to have conversations about toxic masculinity and combat the toxic masculinity narratives [21:56]His top 3 tips for looking after his mental health. [26:22] Quotes on Trauma Recovery through YogaI don't think the west coast of Scotland is unique. I think maybe parts of how it manifests itself, and how it impacts people are potentially unique.I think the biggest challenge is not knowing where to get support.When you address the issue of toxic masculinity, you tend to get a lot of pushback.Exercise and eating healthy are top of my list.My mood has improved dramatically since I started exercising. Connect with my guest and learn more about Trauma Recovery through YogaAlan on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTokAva's websiteContact Alan: [email protected] and [email protected]

Welcome to the 149th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month's theme is all about lived experience, how it shapes policy, and our perspectives, and improves the way we do things.On today’s showWhy I chose to talk about lived experience. [01:07]What the term lived experience is all about. [02:02]The meaning of the word co-production. [03:20]Some gaps we see in workplace policies. [07:11]How we can use lived experience in the workplace. [09:39] QuotesLived experience can also be used in academia and research, particularly in relation to health and social care.I think lived experience in the workplace should be about engaging a wider audience and range of perspectives to shape workplace practices, changing for the better and taking an intersectional approach.The term lived experience provides a unique person-centered approach in terms of knowledge, which can help to present important information that's often missing.We don't want people to feel they are trapped in a web of really difficult. Hard to navigate workplace policies.Return to work policies sometimes feel quite punitive or not fit for purpose.ResourcesLeave me an anonymous message on my SpeakPipeCheck out my course: The Mentally Healthy ProfessionalListen to Episode #79: Neurodivergent Support with Janette BeethamCheck out Episode #119 Universal Design and why it’s so importantListen to Episode #97: The art of listening to support someoneWork with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCJoin my mailing list here: https://bit.ly/DMMCHSU

Welcome to the 148th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month's theme is supporting your work-life balance or blend, and in this episode, I share with you an example of a work-life blend checklist.Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.On today’s showWhy this topic was chosen. [01:43]About the knowledge element of the work-life blend checklist. [02:26]The application element of work-life blend checklist. [03:47]More information about the adaptation element of the work-life blend checklist. [05:26]Why taking care of yourself is very important. [06;03] QuotesKnowledge is about listening to how you feel and warning signs, and how you use this knowledge to guide actions that you take in relation to your work-life blend.We can have the knowledge, we can apply it, but we always have to adapt it.Celebrate success and acknowledge any achievements.Finding the right work-life balance is a journey because we're constantly reviewing what we're doing.As with anything, it's great to listen or absorb information, but what we do with that information is even more important. ResourcesLeave me an anonymous message on my SpeakPipeCheck out my course: The Mentally Healthy Professional168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You ThinkListen to Episode #57: Assertiveness and Self-Care Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCJoin my mailing list here: https://bit.ly/DMMCHSUOne hour focused Sessions £150 1-2-1Power Hour Sessions for OrganisationsComplete the form to discuss your training needs: https://forms.gle/hgnYtmTu33Zeem489Check out my FAQs here: https://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/You can learn more about the coaching I do to support your wellbeing here. Subscribe to the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.If you enjoyed it, why not leave a review? You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Remember to tune in next week, where I’ll bring you more insights on mental health and inclusion.

Welcome to the 147th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. In this episode, we continue our series on this month's theme of supporting your work-life balance or blend.Specifically, I talk about how to find the time - a key issue and something that seems to evade most of us.Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.On today’s showWhat is the definition of work-life balance or blend. [01:41]The biggest challenge of balancing or blending our work and life. [02:19]What is the ideal work-life blend? [02:53]What to do to create your ideal work-life blend. [04:26]About the 168 Time management method. [05;06] QuotesI think it's important to remember that we have still we have been through and we're still going through an enormous amount of flux.Work-life balance is the balance that a working individual needs between time allocated for work and other aspects of life.Work-life blend is not a one size fits all model as everyone will vary.Think about where you are now in terms of work in your personal life.A lot of our time is being sapped into scrolling on our phones. I'm certainly guilty of this, and it stops me from going to bed earlier. ResourcesLeave me an anonymous message on my SpeakPipeCheck out my course: The Mentally Healthy Professional168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You ThinkListen to Episode #57: Assertiveness and Self-Care Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCJoin my mailing list here: https://bit.ly/DMMCHSUOne hour focused Sessions £150 1-2-1Power Hour Sessions for OrganisationsComplete the form to discuss your training needs: https://forms.gle/hgnYtmTu33Zeem489Check out my FAQs here: https://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/You can learn more about the coaching I do to support your wellbeing here. Subscribe to the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.If you enjoyed it, why not leave a review? You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Remember to tune in next week, where I’ll bring you more insights on mental health and inclusion.

Welcome to the 146th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month’s theme is all about tips to support your work-life balance or blend.In this episode, I'm going to give you a framework to think about your mood and checking in with this.Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.You can also read the blog version of this podcast here.On today’s showThe meaning of the word mood. [01:26]Why is a mood tracker and why it's important to have one? [03:03]One particular mood tracker model that can really help you. [05:06]An example of how quickly our mood can change. [06:37]About the grey zone and why it's important to understand it [07:48] QuotesI think moods and emotions are interlinked.There are certain things that we have to do, or we have to partake in, it can put us in a bad mood,We can't always read our emotions,We're not meant to be in a positive happy mood 100% of the time.Unfortunately, life does throw curveballs at us, and we might be in a bad mood, more than we might want to. ResourcesLeave me an anonymous message on my SpeakPipePersonal Resilience TrainingListen to Episode #141: Loneliness and Mental Health Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to the 145th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. It's the month of June, and this month’s theme is all about tips to support your work-life balance or blend. Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.You can also read the blog version of this podcast here.On today’s showWhy I chose to cover this topic today. [01:08]About the tea cup energy drainer. [05:35]How to apply the tea cup analogy in your life. [06:29]About the concept of eliminate, automate or transfer [09:16]The importance of delegation [13:03]QuotesIt seems that hybrid working may be causing a lot of UK workers to ignore their mental health.It's really about making sure you have the right balance for yourself.Our professional lives are really tied up with identity.Balancing or blending our work and life is quite a delicate act,You cannot drink from an empty cup. ResourcesLeave me an anonymous message on my SpeakPipeEpisode #134: Recognising the needs of CarersListen to Episode #18: Looking Beyond New Year’s ResolutionCheck out Episode #114: Identifying and Combatting Burnout Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to the 144th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. As we approach the end of Mental Health Awareness Month, I wanted to pick up on a topic I often get asked about - one that can link to people not being able to speak about their Mental Health at work - and that is, suspicion and thinking people are faking it.Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.On today’s showWhy I chose to cover this topic today. [01:27]Some issues that could cause mental ill-health at work. [03:47]What we can do to support people struggling with mental ill-health at work [06:03]How to deal with people that actually open up to you about their mental ill-health. [08:03]What to do if people are actually faking mental illness. [10:56] QuotesIn my experience, it's extremely rare that someone fakes mental ill-health.I think faking mental health to escape work or gain or redundancy package, is very bizarre to me.What I found is that staff don't ask for help when experiencing mental ill-health.It's better to try and have a conversation, even if it doesn't go perfectly than to jump to conclusions.We know that mental and physical health, are not completely distinct. They overlap, and they overlap significantly. ResourcesLeave me an anonymous message on my SpeakpipeMental Health First Aid EnglandSamaritansSANELineMindAnxiety UKWellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) Mind’s WAPRemploy SupportListen to Episode 97: The art of listening to support someoneCheck out Episode 143: Why won’t they accept help?Universal Design and why it’s so important Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to the 143rd episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month, as it’s Mental Health Awareness Week and this year’s theme is loneliness, we are going to be focussing on loneliness and the impact of mental health on various groups.Today I am talking about why it can be so difficult for people to accept help when they are diagnosed with mental health challenges or are just feeling low.Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.On today’s showWhy I chose to cover this topic today. [01:09]Some factors that prevent people from seeking help. [02:26]A look into the Cartman Drama Triangle [06:01]About the emotional reality and responsibility model. [16:34]What we can do to encourage people to seek help. [17:16] QuotesNo family sits down and says, right, what's our communications policy? Or what's our health and safety policy in our home.If we're trying to support someone, or feel frustrated with them, we have to really be mindful of what are we feeling first.When emotions are high, you want to check the reality and move the person to responsibility.Just like with physical health, when we want to train or do something in the gym, we generally don't go from being a beginner runner to being an elite athlete.The person who is in that victim mode feels overwhelmed by their sense of vulnerability, inadequacy or powerlessness. ResourcesLeave me an anonymous message on my SpeakpipeLearn more in Episode 63: Anti-bullying initiatives that workListen to Episode 97: The art of listening to support someoneWheel of wellbeing Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to the 142nd episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month, as it’s Mental Health Awareness Week and this year’s theme is loneliness, we are going to be focussing on loneliness and the impact of mental health on various groups. Today I am talking about how racism creates mental-ill health. In today’s showWhy I chose to cover this topic. [01:12].How experiencing racism can impact someone's mental health. [07:20]Things that can happen in the workplace that can impact mental ill-health [14:41]What we can do to support people with mental health challenges. [17:16]Some questions to reflect on how Racism Creates Mental-Ill Health. [20:10]QuotesThe National Health Service is England's largest employer of global majority black and diaspora communities.If you're from a dominant culture, or from a dominant profile, you are not neutral. It's just that things are set up easily, and things are set up to empower you.It's key to remember that different cultures will have varying perspectives on mental ill-health.Depression is linked with racism and racist experiences, due to the isolation that people experience.Often when we try and talk about racism in the workplace, it is dismissed away.ResourcesLeave me an anonymous message on my SpeakpipeListen to Episode 41: Racism and Genuine AllyshipLearn more in Episode 68: Still too scared to talk about race?Check out Episode 43: Windrush Day with Patrick VernonListen to Episode 97: The art of listening to support someoneWork with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to the 141st episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month, as it’s Mental Health Awareness Month and this year’s theme is loneliness, focussing on loneliness and its impact on mental health.In today’s showHow loneliness is affecting people living in the UK. [01:19]Why loneliness is subjective. [02:30]The meaning of loneliness? [02:54]Some statistics about loneliness. [04:05]What we can do when we feel lonely. [10:10]QuotesSociety needs to find better ways of tackling the epidemic of loneliness.The pandemic has made me feel like much more of an introvert.Loneliness is that unwelcome feeling of lack or loss of companionship.If we enjoy our own company, we’re doing something that brings us joy, we might be alone, but we’re not lonelyBeing lonely can become a serious problem when it becomes a day to day reality, and over time, that can grind us down.ResourcesLeave me an anonymous message on my SpeakpipeJo Cox Foundation Loneliness Report Listen to Episode 75: How love promotes positive mental healthCheck out Episode 76: Self-love and Self-Esteem what does it all mean?Listen to Episode 97: The art of listening to support someoneCheck out Episode 140: Why we need to talk about Maternal Mental HealthListen to Episode 125: Doing Less Being More18 Things to Do When You’re Feeling Lonely, According to ExpertsWork with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to the 140th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month, as it's Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week and this year’s theme is loneliness, we are going to be focussing on supporting the Mental Health of various groups and combating loneliness. In today’s showAbout the Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week. [01:46]How different cultures perceive mental illness related to pregnancy. [02:53]What is post-natal depression? [04:19]How post-natal depression can affect some mothers. [20:27]Some tips for employers on how to manage returning parents. [07:21] QuotesAround 20% of women experience perinatal mental illness.Often, when we talk about mental ill-health in the workplace, we related to stress but of course, that stress could be internal it could be external.After giving birth to a child, many mothers experience or can experience a period of mental ill-health known as postnatal depression.Having a family and giving someone is a life-changing event and can have lasting effects on parents, emotionally and physically.For some, returning to work as a parent can be highly stressful, so employers need to be aware of the potential strain and how the returning parent, in particular, the mother, wants to manage her mental well being, her parenting and also her role at work. ResourcesLeave me an anonymous message on my SpeakpipeMaternal Mental Health Awareness WeekListen to Episode 135: Recognising Different Ways to Have a FamilyCheck out Episode 65: Why Training isn’t a PanaceaListen to Episode 97: The art of listening to support someonePostnatal depression and perinatal mental health Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to the 139th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month’s focus is all about music and mental health. Today we are going to be talking more about drum and bass, one of my favourite kinds of music as many of you will know, mental health and particular male musicians.To join me in doing this is music therapist Mitekiss.Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.About my guest MitekissWith over two decades of experience and an impressive collection of his signature soul-infused releases on some of the most formidable labels across the drum & bass spectrum including imprints such as Shogun, Chase & Status’ MTA and Skankandbass, since signing to Hospital Records back in 2018 Mitekiss has become a staple figure in the scene crafting out his very own unique sonic identity.From the tender age of 15, the London-native has been sculpting his sound through the exotic experimentation of other diverse genres that eventually lead him to a steady heartbeat of 174BPM. Mitekiss began to pick up momentum when ‘Void’, a free track on Skankandbass caught the attention of Shogun Audio head honcho, Friction. Among dropping his own sonic gems Mitekiss also runs his own label Goldfat Records with Mr Porter, which continues to grow year on year whilst nurturing some of the most promising future talents in the world of drum & bass.In 2018, he dropped his debut album ‘Crate Six Seven’ which further proved his musical versatility as he explored the sounds of ambient, jungle, liquid-jazz and soul across 14 stunning tracks. 2020 saw the release of his incredibly curated ‘Objects To Push’ EP home to the widely popular single ‘Matter (feat. Ruth Royall)’. With his next big project ‘Bolivian Hotel Bistro’ released on Friday 25 Feb 2022, don’t take your eyes off Mitekiss as he continues to trailblaze his way to the top of the liquid drum & bass sphere. His multi-faceted approach to drum & bass as an artist, label owner, mentor and all-around tastemaker proves his commitment and love for the sound.In today’s showAbout Mitekiss and the type of music he produces. [03:36]What mental health means to him. [07:48]How producing music helps him with his mental health. [08:14]What the culture of mental well-being looks like in the drum and bass world. [20:27]His top 3 tips for looking after his mental health. [30:56] QuotesWhen I was younger, in my early 20s, I had a real tough time with anxiety, to the point where I couldn't have a job anymore.Generally, the drum and bass world can be quite open-minded, and upfront about mental well-being.70% of musicians report symptoms of mental illness.It's taken me 20 years of my life to recover from my social anxiety.When you're in a low place, you do need professional help. ResourcesIn conversation with Mitekiss Connect with my guestMitekiss' website Mitekiss on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCOne hour focused Sessions £150 1-2-1Power Hour Sessions for OrganisationsComplete the form to discuss your training needs: https://forms.gle/hgnYtmTu33Zeem489Check out my FAQs here: https://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/You can learn more about the coaching I do to support your wellbeing here. Subscribe to the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.If you enjoyed it, why not leave a review? You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Remember to tune in next week, where I’ll bring you more insights on mental health and inclusion.

Welcome to the 138th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month’s focus is all about music and mental health. Today we are going to be talking about adult play, music and connection. To join me in doing this is music therapist Crystal Luk-Worrall.Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.About my guest Crystal Luk-WorrallCrystal is an HCPC registered music therapist and EMDR therapist based in London. Clinically she works part-time at the early child development service in the NHS and runs a private practice called Clap and Toot, where she specialises in working with adopted families. She also runs the Freelance Network at the British Association of Music Therapy. She loves bringing people together and encourages people to not be shy about talking about the work we do. Crystal offers career development supervision, where she helps other therapists to design their careers and to incorporate 'play time' as part of our work routine.'In today’s showAbout Crystal Luk-Worrall and the work she does. [01:38]How she became a music therapist. [03:38]Some outcomes families hope to achieve when they work with her. [06:56]What the term "mental well-being" means to her. [09:46]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [28:51] QuotesThe meaning of mental well-being differs from person to person and from time to time.I had to learn to allow people to love and support me because I had always been very independent up to a point.I'm a huge believer that there's no one-size-fits-all mental well-being formula that works for everyone.Mental well-being doesn't just sit on its own. It connects in a lot of areas in our life.Plan your breaks ahead. Especially if you're a freelancer. ResourcesCove Music AppEpisode #130: Trauma Recovery through Yoga Connect with my guestCrystal's website Crystal on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCOne hour focused Sessions £150 1-2-1Power Hour Sessions for OrganisationsComplete the form to discuss your training needs: https://forms.gle/hgnYtmTu33Zeem489Check out my FAQs here: https://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/You can learn more about the coaching I do to support your wellbeing here. Subscribe to the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.If you enjoyed it, why not leave a review? You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Remember to tune in next week, where I’ll bring you more insights on mental health and inclusion.

Welcome to the 137th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month’s theme is all about music and mental health. So, in today’s episode, I am going to be sharing with you 11 tracks that boost my mental wellbeing. Unfortunately, I can’t play them due to licensing regulations, but I have created a playlist as part of this episode to share with you. I’d love to hear from you as listeners, to make this super easy I have created a place online where you can leave me a voice note anonymously called SpeakPipe or with your name, you choose.Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.In today’s showWhy I decided to talk about music and mental health. [00:55]An interesting piece of research about how music affects the human brain. [01:07]Some of the ways music can boost our mental health. [04:26]How we can use music to support our mental health and wellbeing. [11:55]The ways in which we can use playlists as part of our wellbeing toolkit [13.05]QuotesMeditative music has a very cathartic effect on us.Music can help us focus on our work, study or the activity that we're doing.Understanding how music affects your emotions goes a long way to help ease anxious and depressive thoughts.Music increases memory and retention, as well as maximising learning capabilities.When we select a piece of music and replay it, it can really help us to express emotion without having to say anything.ResourcesThe playlistListen to Episode 41: Racism and Genuine AllyshipCheck out Episode 39: 5 lessons we can learn from noughts and crosses:Work with meJoin my mailing list where you will receive a copy of my e-Book The Mentally Healthy Leading Manager: https://bit.ly/MHLMEBK21Have a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to a bonus episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month’s theme is all about music and mental health. However, it is also Stress Awareness Month, so I wanted to do an extra episode for you about resilience. Focussing on why resilience isn’t a sticking plaster. Keep listening, as I am also doing a giveaway in this episode. I’d love to hear from you as listeners, to make this super easy I have created a place online where you can leave me a voice note on a platform called SpeakPipe with or without your name, you choose.In today’s show on Why Resilience Isn’t A Sticking PlasterWhy I decided to create this special bonus episode. [01:20]The meaning of resilience. [01:40]What resilience is not. [02:14]How to win a place in my e-course – the mentally healthy professional. [03:51]3 tips to help you consider your resilience strategy. [05:08]Quotes on Why Resilience Isn’t A Sticking PlasterPrior to the pandemic resilience had been something on employers’ lips for some time.Resilience is the ability to adapt following setbacks and difficult life events whilst maintaining positive mental health and wellbeing.I often think of resilience as an internal rubber band.Putting up with poor management and simply sucking it up, bullying behaviours, thinking you’re not strong enough is not resilience.Organisations and businesses also need to build resilient systems by realising that people are simply not machines.Resources for on Why Resilience Isn’t A Sticking PlasterCheck out Episode 39: 5 lessons we can learn from noughts and crossesBlog Post: Personal resilience trainingBlog Post: How to address your StressBITC ReportWork with meJoin my mailing list where you will receive a copy of my e-Book The Mentally Healthy Leading Manager: https://bit.ly/MHLMEBK21Have a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCOne hour focused Sessions £150 1-2-1

Welcome to the 136th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month’s theme is all about music and mental health. So, in today’s episode, I am going to be talking about how music boosts our mental health. Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.In today’s showWhat today's topic is about. [00:39]Why I decided to talk about today's topic. [00:55]An interesting research about how music affects the human brain. [01:07]Some ways music can boost our mental health. [04:26]How we can use music to support our mental health and well-being. [11:55] Quotes Meditative music has a very cathartic effect on us.Understanding how music affects your emotions goes a long way to help ease anxious and depressive thoughts.Music increases memory and retention, as well as maximising learning capabilities.Music can help us focus on our work, study or the activity that we're doing.When we select a piece of music and replay it, it can really help us to express emotion without having to say anything. ResourcesMusic 'releases mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain'5 positive effects music has on your mental healthWhy We Listen to Music With Lyrics We Don’t UnderstandEpisode 75: How love promotes positive mental healthEpisode 89: Connecting with Nature and Mental HealthEpisode 125: Doing Less Being More Work with meJoin my mailing list where you will receive a copy of my e-Book The Mentally Healthy Leading Manager: https://bit.ly/MHLMEBK21Have a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCOne hour focused Sessions £150 1-2-1Power Hour Sessions for OrganisationsComplete the form to discuss your training needs: https://forms.gle/hgnYtmTu33Zeem489Check out my FAQs here: https://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/You can learn more about the coaching I do to support your wellbeing here. Subscribe to the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.If you enjoyed it, why not leave a review? You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Remember to tune in next week, where I’ll bring you more insights on mental health and inclusion.

Welcome to the 135th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month, the focus is recognition, and today, we are talking about the right to have a family and the different ways to do this with Jenny Saft, Founder of OVIAVO.About my guest Jenny SaftJenny has a business background and completed her MBA at Hult International Business School in San Francisco. Attracted to the startup world, she stayed there for three years before moving back to Germany. Before starting Oviavo, she worked as VP Business Development for the Dutch fintech company Adyen (IPO 2018).Jenny has personally undergone several social freezing cycles and has experienced the inadequacy of medical advice and support, the lack of transparency from clinics on treatment, cost, physical and psychological effort, the stigma in our society and the overwhelming amount of (often misleading) information online.OVIAVO is a fertility benefits platform that helps employers attract & retain top talent while tackling diversity & inclusion. By providing fertility benefits, OVIAVO is helping modern companies overcome inequality. Not everyone is able to conceive a child and OVIAVO wants to support everyone in their family forming journey regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation or marital status.In today’s show onAbout Jenny Saft and why she started OVIAVO. [02:05]Why she decided to freeze her eggs, even though she wan't sure she wanted children. [04:13]Her vision of true equality in the fertility, adoption and surrogacy space. [05:04]What workplaces can do to genuinely support staff who are on mental ill health and fertility journeys. [14:07]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [25:56] Quotes onStarting a family should be a right and not a privilege.Communication is so important.You have to force yourself to look after yourself.In most European countries, the adoption rates are really low because there are not that many children that are up for adoption.Implementing fertility benefits alone is not enough. Connect with my guest and learn more aboutOVIAVO on Instagram and FacebookOVIAVO websiteOVIAVO's [email protected] Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCOne hour focused Sessions £150 1-2-1Power Hour Sessions for OrganisationsComplete the form to discuss your training needs: https://forms.gle/hgnYtmTu33Zeem489Check out my FAQs here: https://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/You can learn more about the coaching I do to support your wellbeing here. Subscribe to the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.If you enjoyed it, why not leave a review? You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Remember to tune in next week, where I’ll bring you more insights on mental health and inclusion.

Welcome to the 134th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.Today, we are going to be talking about recognising the needs of carers, and as you know, this month's theme is all about recognition and recognising different groups To join me in talking about this is Anita Powell.About my guest Anita PowellAnita grew up in Bedford England. Currently, she is a Community Engagement Advocate based in Bedford, her career has included working on and off in the voluntary and community sector. She has a natural internal interest in working with and around social issues and injustices. She has worked on causes and jobs working with women, men, young people including mental health, ex-offenders, long term unemployed, menopause and refugees,Founder Menopause Alliance former in 2019 is currently an online peer Facebook group and page, but before the 2020 Covid Pandemic it organised faced to face meetings. Co-founder Black Women in Menopause with Nina Kuyper’s we organise online zoom sessions.Co-founder of Bedford Radio Local community radio Station Women officer for the Labour Party within Bedford. Speaker on Menopause, community, Ethnic Minorities, and women issues.Awarded ‘I am Inspiring’ in 2016 by Evans, Garnier and Marie Claire Magazine for her community work and community radio show. https://www.marieclaire.co.uk/fashion/meet-iamme-award-winners-348942Current Community radio show: Disabilities matters. Anita is a mother of an autistic child, she was a child carer of a parent with a disability, and she is also dyslexic. When she has time, she tries to draw, paint, sew, make mosaics, and read.In today’s show onAbout Anita Powell and her purpose in life. [02:36]How she has managed to juggle her work and her personal life. [04:38]How got involved in community radio. [08:47]What workplaces can do to genuinely support staff who have caring responsibilities. [21:58]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [28:51] Quotes onOne of the things that I've had to do is, I've had to learn to say the word no.I've had to develop a change of mindset in certain things, because I'm also also single parent.Community radio helped me build my confidence and my communication skills as it helps you develop the skill of being analytical and ability to articulate my thoughts or feelings.Human Resources departments of workplace should create a menopause policy, something in black and white, that clearly outlines how the organisation manages the topic of menopause.Sharing time with important people, is my emotional boost. Connect with my guest and learn more aboutBlack Menopause and Beyond on Instagram, Twitter and FacebookAnita on TwitterAnita's [email protected] with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCOne hour focused Sessions £150 1-2-1Power Hour Sessions for OrganisationsComplete the form to discuss your training needs: https://forms.gle/hgnYtmTu33Zeem489Check out my FAQs here: https://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/You can learn more about the coaching I do to support your wellbeing here. Subscribe to the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.If you enjoyed it, why not leave a review? You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Remember to tune in next week, where I’ll bring you more insights on mental health and inclusion.

Welcome to the 121st episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month, the podcast has focussed on access and accessibility. Thinking about how certain groups have access to certain careers and others don’t.In today's episode, I am so excited and delighted to be speaking to an award-winning burgeoning fashion designer Parastro Qalandri. About my guest Susan PopolaSusan has a first degree in political science. In addition, she's achieved diplomas and personnel management and the art of systems thinking.She has a postgraduate diploma in human resources with a specialism in organisational consultancy and a master's in human resources, strategy and change. She is a member of both the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, the CIPC and a member of the Milton Keynes branch, the British Chamber of Commerce.She's also a common purpose graduate, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a Windsor Castle Society of Leadership Fellow. Susan has experience of working on projects from the private-public and voluntary sectors, including era WorleyParsons, Department of help London Fire Service and the Royal Festival Hall.She has a focus on HR strategy and change, talent management, performance management, succession planning, diversity and inclusion. And she's previously worked as a youth worker and a business ambassador for youth enterprise. She was in fact a founding board member and committee chair on a school board for 10 years.She now also conducts work within education and runs programmes for young adults. Susan uses her skills and capabilities to leverage the value of people in the world of work society that we live in. And through the education and integration of the younger generation. Susan refers to this as human value optimization.In today’s show onAbout Susan Popola and what she does. [02:44]How she became a human value optimisation specialist. [04:53]What the term "Allyship" means to her. [08:57]Some ways men can really be true allies to women. [09:56]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [24:40] Quotes onGrowing up, I was taught, everyone has value, something to offer.Allyship to me means men caring about women, recognising that they have a place and thinking about ways to support them.Men need to understand how typically, women think differently from them.I know who I am and what I do. I'm very purpose-driven. So that means I'm less likely to be distracted by people and what's going on around on me.We're all on a journey and It makes sense to have a better understanding of where people are and to journey together from the point that they're at. Connect with my guest and learn more aboutSusan on TwitterSusan's website

Welcome to the 131st episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month’s theme is all about recognition. In particular, recognising things we may take for granted and things outside our sphere of reference. So, in today’s episode, I’m going to be talking about how true crime podcasts can help us to see bias.In today’s showWhy I decided to connect bias and true crime podcasts. [01:15]What unconscious bias is [02:35]Some of the podcasts that I listened to that brought this to the forefront for me. [05:03]Different types of biases. [06:45]The role that bias had to play in some of the scams. [12:47] Quotes from The Body Keeps the ScoreUnconscious bias refers to a bias, is something that we're unaware of, and it happens outside of our control.Past experiences influence our thinking.We see the world as we are not as it is.We may also ignore the faults of people we like, and notice the faults of more of people from groups we unconsciously don't like.When people are more tired, and under time pressure, the more vulnerable they are. ResourcesThinking Fast and SlowLeaders Guide to Unconscious BiasACAS: Dealing with Unconscious Bias Work with meJoin my mailing list where you will receive a copy of my e-Book The Mentally Healthy Leading Manager: https://bit.ly/MHLMEBK21Have a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCOne hour focused Sessions £150 1-2-1Power Hour Sessions for OrganisationsComplete the form to discuss your training needs: https://forms.gle/hgnYtmTu33Zeem489Check out my FAQs here: https://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/You can learn more about the coaching I do to support your wellbeing here. Subscribe to the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.If you enjoyed it, why not leave a review? You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Remember to tune in next week, where I’ll bring you more insights on mental health and inclusion.

Welcome to the 130th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month’s focus is all about giving and sharing, and today we are going to be talking about trauma recovery through somatic movement for ourselves and others.And to join me to do this is the wonderful, Ava Riby-Williams.About my guest Ava Riby-WilliamsAva is a queer artist, community facilitator, activist, yoga teacher and student, of Ghanaian and Indian descent, living in London. Her work focuses on using creativity to connect, and guiding groups into deeper contemplation about issues concerning their liberation and wellbeing - on personal and collective levels.As a guide, Ava is clear that the point of her work is to encourage students to become their own inner teachers: she does this with young people and adults. Ava is driven by the importance of making healing practises accessible to isolated and marginalised communities as a tool to unwind trauma; she has been facilitating and creating training in this field since 2017.She is passionate about creating safe, accessible spaces for self-exploration, expression and acceptance, and is deeply curious about how we can do this across lines of oppression.With over 10 years of Yoga, creative practice, facilitation and performance experience, her teaching is often woven with song, poetry and play as a way to deepen our capacity to Love and experience life. In today’s show onAbout Ava Riby-Williams and what she does. [02:35]What it's like for her being a yoga teacher of color. [05:53]Why she decided to become a yoga teacher. [09:29]What the term somatic movement means to her. [12:50]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [35:53] Quotes onThe word somatic basically means just of the body.Everyone deserves to be nourished and resourced. Everyone is worthy of that, no matter how hard or long a person is working.It is helpful to give people a space to connect in a way that isn't necessarily just about the themes of work, but does facilitate their connection and openness with one another.I used movement as a way to discharge, express, celebrate what it is that I'm feeling.I do a lot of work around helping people to get out of their heads, and helping people to get out of the framework of "doing it right". Connect with my guest and learn more aboutAva on InstagramAva's website Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONCOne hour focused Sessions £150 1-2-1Power Hour Sessions for OrganisationsComplete the form to discuss your training needs: https://forms.gle/hgnYtmTu33Zeem489Check out my FAQs here: https://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/You can learn more about the coaching I do to support your wellbeing here. Subscribe to the podcast If you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.If you enjoyed it, why not leave a review? You can also connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Remember to tune in next week, where I’ll bring you more insights on mental health and inclusion.

Welcome to the 121st episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month’s focus is all about sharing your story, and to join me in talking about this and empowering beliefs is Shazney Spence.About my guest Shazney SpenceShazney Spence is a personal coach and the Managing Director of EQuanimity Lifestyle & Success Coaching Ltd, she is a Public speaker, Reiki Master and Soul Coach. She personally develops and empowers people to live their best lives, coaching them on a 1-2-1 and group basis. In addition, Shazney provides non-clinical mental health consultative support services to corporate organisations. She is also a Diverse Minds Associate. Shazney supports her clients to attain a state of mental, emotional stability and balance through focused coaching, energy work and meditation. Through many years of coaching experience, Shazney is highly skilled at managing individual relationships with the purpose of enhancing their professional learning, effectiveness, and fulfilment. Shazney seeks to understand individuals’ goals and desires, helping the individual to meet them in an honest, unbiased, and purposeful manner. As the founder of The Super Soul Sanctuary, it is her mission to guide her clients to a space of clarity and calm replacing overwhelm with awareness and aligned intentional action. Shazney has worked with a worldwide range of clients from varied business cultures. Previously, during her 10-year career at Accenture, she was key in leading initiatives around Human Capital and driving change in the way mental health is viewed culturally within the organisation. As Mental Health Lead for Accenture’s UK division, Shazney was pivotal in engaging employees and leaders, leading conversations around mental health & wellbeing, facilitating monthly calls for those affected by mental health conditions.In today’s showAbout Shazney Spence and what she does. [02:35]How she got into her line of work and empowers people to do it. [03:57]What the term "empowering belief" means to her. [07:12]How workplaces can get more of their staff to think more about empowering beliefs. [21:28]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [25:58]QuotesI truly believe that we have disempowered we have disempowering beliefs, as well as empowering beliefs.I have a coach and I have had a coach for many years,I really invest in my own personal development, as well as my own spiritual and mental and emotional development.I practice breath-work and meditation.I think what the past few years has reinforced in people is that there is this need to take care of their emotions, the mind-body connection, to really think about what's important.Connect with my guest and learn more aboutShazney's websiteShazney on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook

Welcome to the 128th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month’s theme is all about giving and sharing. So, in today’s episode, I’m going to be talking about reciprocity in mentoring relationships, particularly reciprocal mentoring relationships.In today’s showAbout mentoring and how it's gained popularity over the years. [00:47]The difference between mentoring, coaching and sponsorships. [01:14]What mentoring, coaching and sponsorships have in common. [03:44]The specific benefits of reciprocal mentoring. [05:49]Some mentoring techniques to consider for your programme [15:56]QuotesMentoring could take place in a formal or informal way, inside of the workplace outside of the workplace.A mentor could be anyone in a position with experience desired by a mentee who can offer advice and support.Coaching is about asking those powerful questions to enable coachees to discover the answers themselves.A sponsor is a senior staff member invested in their protegees career success.Mentoring doesn't just have to be a conversation. ResourcesPodcast Episode #97: The art of listening to support someone Work with meJoin my mailing list where you will receive a copy of my e-Book The Mentally Healthy Leading Manager: https://bit.ly/MHLMEBK21Have a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to the 127th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month’s focus is all about giving and sharing. Giving is one of the five ways to well-being developed by the New Economics Foundation in 2009.To join me in talking about this in more detail is Shari Foos.About my guest Shari FoosShari is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Los Angeles, and a Master of Science in Narrative Medicine from Columbia University. As a sought-after expert on the subjects of relationships and meaningful connection,Shari’s writing and commentary have appeared in a range of online and print publications, including Real Simple, Huffington Post, Thrive, Shondaland, Women’s Health, and Bustle.Shari has developed The Narrative Method is an award-winning approach to building meaningful human connections by helping individuals reframe how they see themselves and others through the process of sharing stories.TNM programs and products are designed to peel away participants' negative or false beliefs imposed by cultural and social influences to help them rebuild their understanding of themselves and the world. In today’s show onAbout Shari Foos and how she developed the narrative method. [03:50]What sharing her story means to her. [06:22]All about her DIY human cards and how you can use them. [10:29]What workplaces can do to introduce a narrative method style approach into their organisations. [25:11]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [30:49]Quotes onEvery group struggles with the projections of others positive or negative,I just get so much energy from having real conversations with people.When you connect with the beat of your heart, you are connecting from your dominant part to all the other parts inside of yourself.Everyone you come into contact with is a relationship,Brilliant ideas can come from everywhere, when they're invited.Connect with my guest and learn more aboutShari's websiteShari on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin

Welcome to the 126th episode of the award-winning DM podcast. This month’s theme is mind-body connection and how our physical health supports our mental health and how our mental health supports our physical health. So, on today’s episode, I’m going to be talking about the book The Body Keeps The Score by Dr Bessel Van Der Kolk.

Welcome to the 125th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month the focus is on the connection of physical and mental health. Today, we are talking about doing less and being more with Karen Liebenguth. Karen is someone I have referenced and talked about in previous episodes of the podcast on nature and mental health. So, I’m really pleased that she could join us today in person.

Welcome to the 124th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month’s theme is mind-body connection, how our physical health supports our mental health and how our mental health supports our physical health. So, in today’s episode, I talk about how to have wellbeing conversations where physical health may help to open up the conversations about mental health.In today’s show onWhy I decided to make an episode on this topic. [00:53]Some statistics about stress in the workplace. [03:39]How stress can manifest itself in our bodies. [04:40]Some emotional symptoms of stress. [06:24]How to have conversations with someone showing stress-related symptoms. [11:32]Quotes onStress is a very physical sensation.Unfortunately, stress is really seen as an integral part of day to day life. But the ongoing physical impacts are very significant indeed.Stress is a state of mental or emotional strain or tension, resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances.Stress can be super helpful to enable us to perform or to meet deadlines and motivate us to do our best.Chronic stress can contribute significantly to physical problems such as heart disease, hypertension, high blood pressure, and bone density issues, Resources connected toPodcast Episode #97: The art of listening to support someonePodcast Episode #4: Do you wear stress as a badge of honour?Podcast Episode #62: Mindfulness and Managing StressPodcast Episode #114: Identifying and Combatting BurnoutBlog post: How to Handle Stressful ThoughtsBlog post: How to address your stress

Welcome to the 123rd episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast and a very happy 2022 to you all. I hope you had a good break and feel ready for the year ahead.This month’s theme is mind-body connection and how our physical health supports our mental health, and how our mental health supports our physical health.So, in today’s episode, I’m going to be reviewing the book Wintering (The power of rest and retreat in difficult times) by Katherine May.In today’s show onWhy I decided to review the book Wintering (The power of rest and retreat in difficult times). [01:03]Some statistics about mental ill-health. [02:24]What I really loved about this book. [05:54]About the epilogue of this book and why it resonated with me most. [06:15]A look at some of the reviews of this book. [10:31]Quotes onwe all have mental health and that there are steps we can take all year round to protect it.We know that mental health problems impact upon people all year round, and many people struggle to ask for help or seek that help.The connection between physical and mental health is significant.The man who has everything has everything to lose.I can't hibernate like a dormouse, but the analogies and the science behind it, I think is really useful Resources Wintering (The power of rest and retreat in difficult times) by Katherine May.How Blue Monday sparks conversations about mental health Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

On today’s episode, I’m going to be giving you a round-up for 2021 and the reflections from the year. In today’s showWhy I'm not a fan of setting new years resolutions and what I prefer doing instead. [01:07]How 2020 was much harder for me than 2021. [01:42]Why I like to do a round-up at the end of the year. [03:38]What I've learned in the year 2021. [04:40]A tribute to Sandra Brown. [20:29]QuotesThe end of the Gregorian calendar is often a time for the West for reflection for many people.I don't know about you, but I found 2021 Much harder than 2020.This is my fourth full year of business, which has been great. But it's been a really tough year for me personally.I think being grateful for those tiny things, and taking it a day at a time from someone pre-pandemic, who was a super planner has been a really big achievement for me.I do feel incredibly lucky to be alive for so many reasons.

Welcome to the 121st episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month, the podcast has focussed on access and accessibility. Thinking about how certain groups have access to certain careers and others don’t.In today's episode, I am so excited and delighted to be speaking to an award-winning burgeoning fashion designer Parastro Qalandri. About my guest Parastro QalandriShamsher is one of the founding Directors at Communities Inc and has worked with a range of diverse communities experiencing discrimination for 30 years. She is passionate about tackling inequalities, empowering people and creating opportunities for people to make better choices.Shamsher developed the Stand by Me project to tackle bystander apathy in responding to hate crimes and incidents which are unfortunately increasing across the UK. Stand by Me goes some way to tackling the barriers people have to help others when they experience hate and hostility (they don’t know what to do and are concerned about their own safety).It has also been adapted to tackle prejudice and discrimination in the workplace with a focus on those that witness this rather than those that experience it. This approach has gained much attention and has grown from a pilot project in Nottingham in 2018 to a national rollout across England, Scotland, and Wales, supported by Google.org.Through this project, Communities Inc are offering a free one-day training program at no cost to participants.In today’s showAbout Shamsher Chohan and Communities Inc. [02:16]Her thoughts on how South Asian women are looked at in the workplace. [03:21]What do the terms "active bystander and upstander" mean to her. [07:21]How we can all build stronger communities by calling out inequalities faced by the most disadvantaged groups. [11:07]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [26:42]QuotesEvery time I watch the news, my brain is engaging in work mode.It's important to do the right thing, even if it means going against the social norms and being ostracised.Everyone is entitled to respect and dignity, including those we disagree with.When people do complain and raise issues, take them seriously and take action so that everybody else in the organisation sees that it's worth raising these issues.If somebody intervenes, within 10 seconds of an incident starts, then 50% of the time, they can de-escalate or stop that situation.Connect with my guest and learn more aboutEmail: [email protected] Inc websiteCommunities Inc on Youtube, Facebook, and TwitterShamsher on LinkedIn

Welcome to the 120th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month is Disability History Month 2021 and in today's episode, I talk about how to support staff who may need reasonable or workplace adjustments to help them thrive at work.In today’s showWhy I decided to make make an episode on this topic. [00:46]The definition of disability according to the Equality Act 2010. [02:28]Some examples of conditions that are considered a disability. [02:42]What workplaces can do to support staff with a disability. [10:55]How workplace adjustments can enable and empower people to do their job. [13:51]

Welcome to the 119th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month is Disability History Month 2021!In today's episode, I am going to talk about universal design and why it’s so important.

Welcome to the 118th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast.This month’s focus is on managing adversity, and grief is a huge part of it. With the CV-19 Pandemic, grief has been at the forefront perhaps more than in the last 70+ years.It is usually incredibly challenging to cope with the grief and the bereavement of a loved one, a friend or someone you knew. Suffering a loss during shielding or lockdown restrictions may have prevented you from being able to spend final precious moments with them before they passed away or being able to say goodbye in person, perform religious ceremonies or attend a funeral.Grief also spreads beyond bereavement and into any kind of change and in fact even joyous moments. It is essentially a part of everyday life, but do we acknowledge this. To join me in talking about this more is grief expert Dipti Tait.Listen to the episodeIf you enjoyed this episode, then consider subscribing on Apple podcast, Spotify or wherever you access your podcasts from.About my guest Dipti TaitDipti Tait is the author of Good Grief and Planet Grief, she is a Hypnotherapist and Psychotherapist, Sleep Expert and Mental/Emotional Health Lecturer. She has over 15 years of experience as a therapist and runs a very busy online hypnotherapy practice and sees around 100 clients a month.She has founded her own Hypnosis system called Free Flow Transformation Therapy™ and uses this powerful system with all her clients. You will find Dipti sitting on the Breakfast TV Sofa as well as a regular guest on BBC Radio. She is a Relaxation Ambassador and is known for her powerful demonstrations in Free-Flow Trance / Deep Hypnotic Relaxation.Dipti has helped thousands of people with all aspects of grief and mental and emotional health, specialising in helping people with sleep disorders as well as supporting people to cope with all aspects of loss, cancer and terminal illness.Dipti is truly passionate about the human mind and helps people successfully navigate emotional overwhelm. Dipti teaches her clients how to manage their minds well, so they can manage their lives better.There’s no easy way to manage grief, and there is no one “right” way but you can do things to avoid making your suffering worse.In today’s show onAbout Dipti Tait and how she became a hypnotherapist and a grief expert. [03:06]Her process and thoughts around turning grief into fuel. [15:06]How we can all have conversations about grief and loss. [26:00]What businesses could be doing to acknowledge grief in the workplace. [28:07]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [32:43] Quotes onI became a grief expert purely because I went through grief.Hypnotherapy is teaching people to reconnect and revisit with their imagination in a positive way rather than a negative way.We can't force anybody else to like grief or be comfortable with it.I think books, podcasts and YouTube videos are really useful because people can get the help they need without having to go to a therapist and talk things through if that's not what they really want to do.So I basically practice what I teach. Connect with my guest and learn more aboutVisit her websiteDipti on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TwitterDownload her app

Welcome to the 117th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. This month’s theme is all about challenging adversity and adverse circumstances.Friday the 19th of November was International Men’s Day. It celebrates worldwide the positive value men bring to the world, their families and communities.So this month, we highlight positive role models and raise awareness of men’s well-being. One of the six pillars of International Men’s Day is to improve gender relations and promote gender equality not only for men but for women too. In this light, our theme for 2021 is “Better relations between men and women.”A key part of creating better relations between genders is recognising and discussing Toxic Masculinity. Coined in 1980s men’s movements, “toxic masculinity” spread to therapeutic and social policy settings in the early 21st century, coined by Shepherd Bliss an academic and leader in the mythopoetic men’s movement.To join me to talk about this in further detail is Kevin Brazant Founder and CEO of Daddy CPR limited.Connect with my guest and learn more aboutKevin J Brazant on TwitterDaddy CPR on Twitter and LinkedInDaddy CPR's NewsletterLounge Akademics Work with meHave a look at my online work-life balance course on Thinkific. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/DMMHPONC

Welcome to the 116th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast, and this week is national anti-bullying week and this year's theme is one kind word. In today's episode, we talk about what we can do to tackle bystander apathy. To join me to talk about this is Shamsher Chohan.

Welcome to the 115th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. The focus this month is stress awareness and how stress can impact us in various ways. In today’s episode, we talk about managing adversity, especially if you are a parent. To join me in doing this is Christine Brown-Quinn, the founder and owner of The Female Capitalist®, an international career consultancy based in the UK designed to share with professional women globally, practical, hands-on business strategies for career progression and work-life balance.

Welcome to the 113th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast. In today’s episode, I talk about ensuring a Black History Month 365 approach, as we draw towards the end of Black History Month and towards the season of winter.In today’s show onWhat Black History Month 365 is all about. [00:54]Why you should care about Black History Month 365 approach. [01:17]Some ways I've seen some organisations wrongly approach Black History Month events. [02:00]What organisations can do to have a better Black History Month 365 approach. [03:05]Some ideas for organisations celebrating Black History Month for the first time. [09:06]Quotes onBlack History 365 is about conscious shift to truly understand black contributions, excellence and legacies in society today.if you want to change the usual way of doing things and set yourself ahead of the pack, you don't want to appear tokenistic.Black History Month is vital, and one month, much like South Asian History Month, is not enough to recognise the ongoing inequalities, inequity, history and truths.There's old fashioned language and there's hate speech.Tokenism isn't helpful. And although it may be done with the right intention, the impact can be harmful. Resources onBlack History Cymru/WalesCelebrating Black History 365Black History Haringey 365Royal Central School of Speech and DramaEpisode #9: How to organise meaningful Black History Month Events at workWork with meIf you enjoyed the content why not subscribe to my bi-monthly newsletter. You can access it here: http://bit.ly/MHLMEBKLNKMy coaching solutions can be accessed here: https://diverseminds.co.uk/solutions/coaching/

About my guest Talia LoderickTalia Loderick is a Money Coach, based in Cardiff. She calls her money coaching practice TLC because when she realised the acronym for Tender Loving Care also stands for Talia Loderick Coaching she almost swooned with joy. Because who doesn’t need a dose of TLC from time to time? Rhetorical question – we all do. Talia offers one-to-one coaching helping women understand their emotions and beliefs around money so they can improve their behaviour with money, feel better and be better with money. Talia also delivers financial education workshops to 11-19-year-olds, helping young people build lifelong money-management skills.In today’s show on Cultural Money Stories and MindsetsAbout Talia, and her coaching practice. [02:20]How she became a money coach. [07:30]What the term “good with money” means to her. [11:23]The specific money mindsets and challenges Global Majority women face [15.20]How there is finally a space for Black women to talk about money [21.12]What workplaces can do to encourage more money conversations amongst their employees [23:59]Her top 3 tips for looking after her mental health. [29:15]Quotes on Cultural Money Stories and MindsetsUnless you know what drives your behaviour, it’s really hard to change your behaviour.Many of women from, global majority /diaspora backgrounds, are taught explicitly and also by modelled behaviour, to support others first, to care for others first, to nurture everyone around us.In order to look after others well, we need to look after ourselves.It’s really hard to motivate yourself from a place of negativity.Financial wellbeing to me, means having enough for my day to day needs.Connect with my guest and learn more aboutEmail: [email protected]’s websiteTalia on Instagram and LinkedIn

Welcome to the 109th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast! In today’s episode, I am going to be talking about creating an inclusive culture for meetings.

Welcome to the 108th episode of the award-winning Diverse Minds podcast! In today’s episode, I am going to be talking about cultural appropriation, what it is, why it’s a no-no, the facets and ways to minimise this.

In today’s episode I am reviewing the book Culture Map by Erin Meyers, published in 2014.