the Henny Flynn podcast

You'll hear this episode begins with me sharing a complete technical breakdown. I had recorded a really lovely episode and when I went back to listen, it sounded like it was voiced by AI. I couldn't fix it, despite my best efforts, and so I had to start again.It's often in moments like these that I turn to my old journals. When I opened one of them at random, this is what emerged:A reflection on the parts of us that get activated when things go wrong The recognition that these aren't parts to suppress, but parts that have been asking for attentionAn invitation to hold these parts in loveAfter reading it aloud, I noticed how much more grounded I felt. And so, of course this is what today's episode actually needed to be. Settle in, and see where the episode takes you.Solo Retreat @ Bach Brook - discover what it could feel like to have time to yourself, where you're fully cared forhttps://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/solo-retreatsAwaken Your Hopes & Dreams - begins Thursday March 26th - 5-week, small group coursehttps://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1983524212314?aff=oddtdtcreatorJoin the mailing list - and hear what's emerging in the next few weekshttps://hennyflynn.kit.com/profile ★ Support this podcast ★

It's a sunny Saturday morning, and I've had a slow start. We're a little late recording this, but what's late? What's early? When there's no fixed time anyway.I've talked about going with the slow before (back in Season 5), and I'm returning to it again because it's such a fundamental part of how I understand change. This time I'm exploring it through different lenses — the butterfly chrysalis, titration from trauma work, the alphabet between A and B.In this episode, I explore...How we're conditioned to move faster through change when our internal mechanisms don't move at the same pace as external eventsThe danger of leaving the slower parts of ourselves behind, and what it means to 'collect ourselves'Why small steps create lasting change — James Clear's Atomic Habits applied to deeper inner work Beautiful disruption from my book The Heart of Change, and how subtle shifts in language can have profound impact The butterfly chrysalis — if we strip it away too quickly, the butterfly can't surviveTitration from trauma work — adding the solution drop by drop until reaction reaches completion, not rushing to resolutionWhy going with the slow isn't passive giving up, but attentive mindful recognition of what's changingThe alphabet between A and B — we're so focused on the fastest route that we forget there might be a healthier, kinder path...This approach builds our capacity, our resilience, and allows us to integrate changes sustainably. It's like taking one bite of an enormous meal at a time, stepping away from the table, coming back — making it deliciously nourishing rather than overwhelming.I also share details about two offerings: Join the mailing list for compassionate self-enquiry & intentional changeAwakening Hopes and Dreams, a 5 week, small group coaching & Flow Journaling course beginning 26 March, 12.00-1.15pm (UK).Settle in, and see where the episode takes you. ★ Support this podcast ★

I'm back in my kitchen - this really feels like the place to speak to you - and I've been thinking this week about the juxtaposition between joy and pain, between the bitter and the sweet.It's something that came up in a conversation I had recently, and something that's been arising in the Gratitude Quest. So I thought we could reflect on that together today.In this episode, I explore:• How we learn to make space for both joy and pain within us - not as a meme of 'what doesn't kill you makes you stronger,' but as a genuine capacity• Why cacao is a beautiful representation of the balance of bitter and sweet • A blessing I received from a wonderful teacher: 'I see you in your pain and your magnificence'• My own journey of believing I could only hold joy or pain, never both — and how I chose joy as my raison d'être, which became unsustainable• The devastating period of grief when I told Anton 'I feel as though I'm never going to smile again'• Getting really ill ten years ago and beginning to understand what would truly serve me• The awakening - deep, deep, deep down in the bowels of my belly - that I have the capacity to hold joy and pain simultaneously• An invitation to feel into where you are on this journey, and to know this capacity exists simply because of our humanityI close with a poem from My darling girl that I don't often share, but that appeared when I opened the book today. It speaks to the expansiveness of a heart that has space for every part of us.I also share details about two offerings: The Weekend of No Requirements 16-19 October (a luxurious retreat in Herefordshire with no requirements upon you to be anything other than how you feel) and Awakening Hopes and Dreams, a small group course beginning 26 March, 12.00-1.15pm (UK).Settle in, and see where the episode takes you. ★ Support this podcast ★

I woke early this morning to check the technology for the Gratitude Quest, and found myself reading the gratitudes people have been sharing. The experience of reading them - particularly responses to today's prompt about sensation and touch - became the inspiration for what I want to share with you today.I'm in my kitchen, in the big comfy chair by the warm Aga, Ronnie at my feet (until he gets bored and wanders off). The air is a little chilly on my skin, and I can hear the birds outside. This feels like a warm, reflective place - which is always my preference for recording.In this episode, I explore:How noticing the sensations of our body - texture, temperature, weight - can reconnect our head with our body, especially when we've been conditioned to separate from bodily experienceWhy many of us learn to dull feelings, sensations, and emotions (because they feel scary, dangerous, or simply too complicated)The experience of hypersensitivity and what I call 'the veil' - when my skin feels porous and other people's emotions get throughThe ancient Celtic concept of 'thin places' - where the barriers thin and we become more alert to what's outside and inside usHow naming what we notice becomes a powerful grounding practice, used by everyone from therapists teaching RAIN to surgeons managing stressA memory of having a panic attack on a muddy Welsh hillside at Water Breaks Its Neck, and how I talked myself through it by naming what I was noticingWhy gratitude practice is fundamentally about naming, and how it trains us to scan for joy rather than threatNearly 300 people are now following the Gratitude Quest, and I'm witnessing something beautiful in the way people are naming their experiences and being heard.A quick note: you might notice the podcast is being recorded and released on Saturday mornings at the moment rather than early Saturday. It's very field-to-fork - or perhaps thought-to-ear, heart-to-heart. This feels immediate to me, and I'm allowing myself freedom with the podcast as I always do. Normal service might resume, or it might not. We'll see.Settle in, and see where this takes you.The Field Note on the Science of Gratitude: https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/field-notes/gratitude-practice-science ★ Support this podcast ★

Finding Gratitude in Simple SoundsI'm back home after my travels, and you might be able to hear the tiny waterfall that pours into the brook along the edge of our land. Maybe you can hear the birds too.This is a short episode about beginning with what's around us - sounds, objects, small moments - and how these simple things can become doorways to gratitude.In this episode, I explore:Why starting with sounds can be a powerful way into gratitude, especially when life feels hardThe beautiful science of birdsong and why it activates our sense of safetyHow building the muscle of gratitude isn't about toxic positivity or fake-it-till-you-make-itA memory from when our son was seven, travelling through France and Spain in a camper van, and how the woman I was then believed she couldn't stop workingWhy trusting our body's need for rest is itself an act of gratitudeI also share details about the Quest for Gratitude - now over 200 people have joined for this free 21-day practice beginning February 26th. We'll gather on Zoom at 7pm UK time to explore the science and practice of gratitude, do a deep relaxation, and journal together. Then 21 days of simple prompts and shared practice.Before you finish listening, pause and notice: what can you hear right now? What can you see? What can you touch? What's something you're grateful for?Settle in, and see where it takes you. JOIN THE QUEST: 21 Days of Gratitude - a free 21-day practice beginning Thursday February 26th, 7pm (UK), with a gathering on Zoom. And, if you're curious to receive weekly notes of compassion, take a look at everyday ♡ compassion ★ Support this podcast ★

I recorded this episode, wrapped in a duvet at a friend's house - you can hear my voice still finding its morning register. I'm away from home seeing friends and family. Understanding my intentions for being here resonates with the question I'd love to explore today: what is it I'm calling in by being here?It's a question with layers - geographical and existential, practical and profound.In this episode, I explore:How we might recognise what we've called into our lives, both consciously and unconsciously, and how to hold that awareness without falling into self-criticism or toxic positivityThe difference between feeling overwhelmed by fullness and recognising the value in what's arrivingRumi's wisdom from 'The Guest House' and what it means to welcome everything as a guideMy curious relationship with manifestation, and why I prefer thinking about clear intentions and trusting our capacity to care for ourselves through whatever arisesWhether creation begins with thoughts or feelings (spoiler: I think my body knows before my head catches up)The thread of gratitude running through it all, and why noticing what we're grateful for helps rewire our negativity biasI also share details about the Quest for Gratitude - a free 21-day practice beginning Thursday February 26th, 7pm (UK), with a gathering on Zoom. JOIN THE QUEST: 21 Days of GratitudeOver 100 people have already signed up, and I'd love to have you there too.Settle in, and see where this conversation takes you.With love, HennyTo be part of the mailing list and enjoy thoughtful connection, including live gatherings and courses https://hennyflynn.kit.com/profileYou can find everything I offer here: https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/ ★ Support this podcast ★

The Language We Use With OurselvesJust before heading out to meet friends, I caught myself in a small moment of self-judgement: 'I'm meant to be ready already.' It's such familiar territory, isn't it? That subtle criticism we layer onto ourselves throughout the day. Recognising that moment sparked some thoughts... that led to this episode, exploring:How our self-talk is a vital part of our self-care practice, shaping not only how we see ourselves but how we expect others to see usThe origins of our inner critic — recognising whose voice we're really hearing when we speak harshly to ourselvesThe difference between self-compassion and self-indulgence, and why compassion doesn't mean condoning all our behavioursA simple journaling prompt that can reveal what shifts when we speak to ourselves with kindnessHow the way we relate to ourselves ripples outward into how we show up in the worldThis is lived work, and I share my own recent experience with the 'vulnerability boomerang' after launching my new website — a reminder that even when we teach this work, we're always practicing it too.If you'd like to explore that journaling prompt, try writing these words at the top of your page, and see where they take you: When I Speak Kindly to Myself, I See...Currently… my work is centred around:Thoughtful connection, including live gatherings and courses, gently shared through my mailing list - join to hear more https://hennyflynn.kit.com/profileYou can find everything I offer here: https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/ ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I share something very personal.As part of a quiet spell of sorting and clearing, Anton unearthed our wedding book — filled with photographs and handwritten messages from many years ago. Inside it was a poem my mother wrote and read at our wedding.This episode isn’t about making changes or doing deep inner work.It’s about love — how we see it, how we live with it, and the stories we carry about what it is.I read the poem in full and let it speak for itself. You might choose to listen once. Or you might find yourself listening again.With love.Currently… my work is centred around:Thoughtful connection, including live gatherings and courses, softly shared through my mailing list - join to hear more https://hennyflynn.kit.com/profileYou can find everything I offer here: https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/ ★ Support this podcast ★

Sometimes we arrive at a decision we fully own - and still find ourselves unsure of whether to take the big step that makes the change happen.In this episode, I explore the tipping point from preparation into activation - and the kind of care these sliding door moments ask of us.We explore:What it means when the change is ours - not driven by external circumstancesThe inner scale of decisions - how something can feel enormous inside us, even if it looks “small” from the outsideHow to stay with uncertainty with compassion - without minimising what matters to usThe brain’s pull toward the status quo - and how stress, tiredness, and overload affect decision-makingA simple journaling practice for seeing the real impact of a decision - including our hopes, fears, and the unknownIf you’re standing on a threshold right now, settle in - and see what this takes you.With love.Currently… my work is centred around:Creating Change with Compassion — a small group, 4-week course using group discussion, insight and Flow Journaling - explore it here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/creating-change-with-compassion-tickets-1374142018769?aff=oddtdtcreatorFor thoughtful connection, including live gatherings and courses, softly shared through my mailing list - join to hear more https://hennyflynn.kit.com/profileYou can find everything I offer here: https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/ ★ Support this podcast ★

As we step into a new year, this episode explores the quiet clarity that can emerge when we move with both energy and deliberation.In this reflective, stream-of-consciousness episode, I share a short piece of writing that arrived unexpectedly — and then open it up gently, listening for what wants to be heard.You’ll hear reflections on:The juxtaposition between energy and deliberation — and how this can feel like clarity rather than conflictStrengthening the energetic trails that genuinely draw our attentionChoosing discernment over momentum, alignment over urgencyLetting go without attachment — even when something once felt rightTrusting the wisdom that grows underground, in the dark, before it reaches the lightI also share a simple Flow Journaling prompt — “As I listen ever more closely…” — as an invitation to notice what might be asking for your attention, and what may be ready to be laid down with gratitude.For now, let this be enough.With love.Currently…At the moment, my work is centred around:A Piece of Quiet — a private weekly practice of listening, reflection, and Flow Journaling - hear the first three episodes here https://apieceofquiet.transistor.fm/ Occasional live gatherings and courses, softly shared through my mailing list - you can join that here https://hennyflynn.kit.com/profileYou can find everything I offer here: https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/ ★ Support this podcast ★

I wasn’t planning to begin a new season of the podcast just yet — and yet something called me back.So this feels like a bonus episode. A moment of reconnection. A gentle hello.In this short reflection, I share what’s been feeling most present for me as we move through this season — particularly the intertwining of kindness and boundaries, and how deeply they belong together.I explore:Why boundaries often come into sharper focus at this time of yearHow clarity can be an act of kindness — to ourselves and othersThe quiet confidence that comes from knowing what feels OK, and what doesn’tThe beauty of honouring each other’s needs with attention and careThere’s no fixing or teaching here — just a naming of what feels alive, and an invitation to notice what might be asking for your attention too.I’ll be back with a new season in the new year. For now, this is a pause, a bridge, and a warm hello.With love.Currently…At the moment, my work is centred around:A Piece of Quiet — a private weekly practice of listening, reflection, and Flow Journaling - hear the first three episodes here https://apieceofquiet.transistor.fm/ Occasional live gatherings and courses, softly shared through my mailing list - you can join that here https://hennyflynn.kit.com/profileYou can find everything I offer here: https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/ ★ Support this podcast ★

As this series draws to a close - and as the podcast quietly passes its 200th episode - I’ve found myself reflecting on silence.In this episode, I explore:The richness of silence as presence rather than absenceThe way how we journey and arrive can shape our capacity for stillnessWhat it means to land — in our bodies, our lives, and the earth itselfThe tenderness of being alone and being cared forThe healing spaciousness that silence offersRecorded from the warmth - and silence - of my kitchen, this conversation flows gently between reflections on retreat, stillness, and the quiet companionship of being with ourselves.If silence feels like something you’re seeking - or perhaps avoiding - this may be a space to listen in and see what it reveals.With love.RESOURCESBOOK Silence: In the Age of Noise: Erling Kagge https://uk.bookshop.org/a/8926/9780241309889RECIPE TumTea: equal quantities of coriander and fennel seeds, steeped in hot water - drunk hot or at room temperatureINNER ADVENTURE Solo Retreat at Bach Brook Farm: https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/Solo-Retreats ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome back to Tuesday's Thought, a bonus episode sharing reflections on the most recent episode of the Henny Flynn podcast: Grief and Belief (S18E9)My 3 key reflections, as I speak to you today are:1. The vulnerability hangover and how it can leave us feeling open and raw2. The old strategies we may have used to suppress feelings of vulnerability3. Naming our vulnerability can be a powerful way of soothing itWith the compassionate self-enquiry...What within you is asking to be seen today? ★ Support this podcast ★

A quiet, meandering and emotional reflection on the intertwined nature of grief and belief.In this stream-of-consciousness episode, I explore:The many ways grief can show up — from loss of loved ones to the living grief of change or unrealised dreamsStillness as a doorway into the temple — whether we see that as stepping into our grief or allowing it to enter withinBelief as a gentle trust in our deep interconnectionThe comfort that comes when we remember we’re not alone but part of something vast and wholeThe love that sits quietly inside it allAn invitation to sit with what is — the ache, the beauty, and our capacity to hold it all with tenderness.With love. ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome back to Tuesday's Thought, a bonus episode sharing reflections on the most recent episode of the Henny Flynn podcast: Threads of connection (S18E8)My 3 key reflections, as I speak to you today are:1. The gossamer threads of connection weave through all life2. When we create, maybe the making of something is enough3. There is Power and Pleasure when we Allow ourselves to connect with others... and with ourselvesWith the compassionate self-enquiry...How is it to notice these gossamer threads - seeing how wide and vast they are? ★ Support this podcast ★

Some episodes arrive without a plan, and yet still something calls to be shared. This is one of those times.An open reflection on what’s alive in the moment, exploring:The invisible web of connection that holds us all, even across time and distanceHow love, memory and resonance live within the bodyWhat it means to listen inward and know when something has reached its natural closeThe gentle practice of managing what we consume and nurturing calmEveryday moments as quiet acts of self-compassionA tender, meandering meditation on connection, endings, and love - and a reminder that even small pauses can change how we feel.With loveAnd...To order your own copy of All the ways I tell myself I love you, direct from me, just click here It's a wonderful book, full of affirmations and beautiful illustrations*****Would you love to find A piece of quiet?Every Wednesday, take 20-minutes to pause with this calming reflective audio practice. As a listener to the podcast, use the code PEACE for 20% off your first year.Join the mailing listSign up to stay connected for occasional emails on change and compassionate self-enquiry Sign-up here to receive everyday compassionThey've been called 'niblets of joy' - tiny reminders of self-love, delivered to your inbox twice a weekVisit the libraryExplore tools for inner connection and compassionate growth. Books, Journaling Resources & Self-paced CoursesFree 60-minute Discovery CallBook a call if you'd love to explore how it could be to work together as you make and manage your own changes ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome back to Tuesday's Thought, a bonus episode sharing reflections on the most recent episode of the Henny Flynn podcast: Choose with Love (S18E7)My 3 key reflections, as I speak to you today are:1. Paying our kind attention to the energy behind our choices2. The dignity of choice and the power we (re)claim when we choose to choose3. The intersection of love and boundaries - and how boundaries are formed of loveWith the compassionate self-enquiry...What might be revealed if you pay deep attention to making one small choice, with love, today? ★ Support this podcast ★