The Happier Life Project

From Pregnancy to Parenthood: Overcoming Maternal Mental Health Challenges with Chlo Hodgkinson

Becoming a parent is often described as one of the most life-changing experiences, filled with love, excitement, and a whole new level of responsibility. But alongside the joy, many new mums experience emotional highs and lows, sometimes more intense than expected. It’s completely natural to feel a mix of emotions, but for some, those low moments don’t just come and go; they linger and deepen. Postnatal depression (PND) can develop anytime within the first year after birth, often appearing in those early months.
In this episode of The Happier Life Project, released just in time for Mother’s Day in the UK, we welcome back My Possible Self contributor Chlo Hodgkinson — a personal trainer, women's diet, fitness, and hormones coach, and founder of Chlo & Co Media, a social media company dedicated to the fitness and wellness space.
Chlo shares her remarkable journey from pregnancy to parenthood, reflecting on everything from coming to terms with the big news and preparing for a smooth labour, to navigating the emotional challenges of caring for a newborn. She also discusses her experience with postnatal depression, which emerged at the five-month mark and, according to the NHS, affects over 1 in 10 women, sharing how she gradually reclaimed her well-being. Chlo candidly addresses the pervasive mum guilt she continually struggled with, the societal pressure to ‘bounce back’ after giving birth, and how she protected herself from the overwhelming social media content directed at new mums.
With host Gabby, Chlo also talks about how she found balance between her thriving career and the demands of motherhood, offering listeners an inspiring message of resilience and self-compassion. Through her honest account, we aim to provide understanding, support, and solidarity for mums everywhere.
Whether you're a new parent navigating similar challenges or supporting someone through their postpartum journey, tune in for heartfelt insights, practical advice, and the reassurance that it’s okay to ask for help. Don’t miss this empowering and compassionate episode of The Happier Life Project.
 
To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast
To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself
To follow Chlo Hodgkinson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chlohodgkinson/

Preserving Fertility: My Egg Freezing Journey & What I Learned Along the Way with Gabby Sanderson

In this special episode of The Happier Life Project, host Gabby Sanderson switches roles to become the guest, sharing her personal two-year journey of egg freezing. Interviewed by fellow My Possible Self contributor Chlo Hodgkinson—a personal trainer, women's diet, fitness, and hormones coach and business owner—Gabby opens up about the physical, emotional, and financial toll of the process.
From making the decision to freeze her eggs to navigating hormone treatments, egg retrieval, and recovery, Gabby breaks down every step. She shares why she was so sure this was the right choice for her, why selecting the right clinic is crucial, and what she wishes she had known beforehand.
Gabby is a highly experienced radio and podcast presenter, producer, and journalist, working for leading audio channels in the UK, USA, and Europe. She has been hosting My Possible Self’s podcast since its conception three and a half years ago, bringing insightful and meaningful conversations about mental health and wellness, to listeners worldwide.
Egg freezing is an increasingly popular option for those looking to preserve their fertility, but it’s not always talked about openly. This episode sheds light on the realities of the process, helping to demystify the experience and provide support for those considering it.
If you're curious about fertility preservation, considering egg freezing yourself, or simply want an honest conversation about reproductive choices, this episode is for you. Tune in for insights, advice, and an empowering discussion on taking control of your fertility future.
To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast
To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself
To follow Gabby Sanderson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiogabby/
To follow Chlo Hodgkinson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chlohodgkinson/

The Anxiety Prescription: Healing from Chronic Anxiety & Alarm with Dr. Russell Kennedy

Anxiety. It’s something we all experience at one point or another, but for some, it’s a constant companion, a heavy weight that can feel impossible to shake off. For many, anxiety becomes a familiar pattern of worrying thoughts, tightness in the chest, and an overwhelming sense of dread that lingers in the background of daily life. But what if everything we’ve been told about anxiety is only scratching the surface?
In this episode of The Happier Life Project, we explore a radically different approach to anxiety with Dr. Russell Kennedy, a physician, neuroscience expert, somatic intuitive, certified yoga instructor, meditation teacher, and professional stand-up comedian. Dr. Kennedy has spent decades grappling with chronic anxiety, and his own journey to understand and heal it led him to develop a groundbreaking method for treatment. He shares his insights in his Amazon #1 bestselling book, The Anxiety Prescription (or Anxiety Rx for our U.S. and Canadian listeners).
Dr. Kennedy’s approach challenges the traditional understanding of anxiety, proposing that it’s not just a mental health condition, but an “alarm stuck in the body.” This shift in perspective has transformed how he heals himself and his patients.
In this conversation, Dr. Kennedy explains how anxiety is often rooted in childhood trauma and presents that all anxiety is, at its core, separation anxiety. He introduces the concept of the "alarm-anxiety cycle," describing how it keeps us trapped in a never-ending loop of stress and panic.But here’s the potential game-changer: Dr. Kennedy emphasizes that healing isn’t about changing your thoughts—it's about changing how you feel in your body. He shares his powerful philosophy, “When you get anxious, look into your body,” and walks us through how somatic work—body-focused practices—can help us quiet the alarm and break free from the cycle of chronic anxiety.
Throughout the episode, Gabby Sanderson and Dr. Russell Kennedy dive into the profound link between anxiety and addiction, exploring how anxiety often fuels harmful coping or masking mechanisms. They also discuss how to make peace with the alarm in your body, even when the person or people responsible for it aren’t around, or are not capable to talk things through.
Packed with practical advice, deep insights, and transformative tools, this episode will empower anyone struggling with anxiety, burnout, or addiction. If you’ve ever felt like anxiety is controlling your life rather than the other way around, Dr. Kennedy’s approach could shift your perspective and give you the clarity and tools to heal.
To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcastTo follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleselfTo follow Dr. Russell Kennedy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theanxietymd/Dr. Russell’s website: www.theanxietymd.comLanding page with links to Dr Russell’s book, MBRX program, and podcast: www.theanxietymd.com/linkinbioThe rest of Dr. Russell’s Social Media Handles:X @THEanxietyMDYouTube @DrRussellKennedyTHEANXIETYMDTikTok @theanxietymdFacebook: Russell Kennedy (The Anxiety MD)

More Than a Bad Habit: Solutions for Skin Picking, Hair Pulling & other BFRBs with Nathan Peterson

Do you struggle with skin picking, hair pulling, nail biting, or other repetitive behaviors you just can’t seem to stop? These actions, known as Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), go far beyond “bad habits” and can have deep emotional and psychological roots. But what causes them? And more importantly, how can they be managed?
In this episode of The Happier Life Project, licensed therapist and BFRBs specialist Nathan Peterson joins us to explore the complexities of these compulsive behaviors. With years of experience working in mental health clinics, hospitals, schools, and his private practice in Texas, Nathan has dedicated his career to helping people navigate OCD, anxiety, tics, Tourette’s, and BFRBs. He also runs a popular OCD and anxiety YouTube channel, providing education and hope to millions.
BFRBs often serve as coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety, boredom, or perfectionism, but they can also occur without conscious awareness. These repetitive self-grooming behaviors impact daily life and can be physically harmful, leading to hair loss, skin infections, and scarring. The emotional consequences range from shame and self-consciousness to anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphic disorder.
In this episode, we explore what makes a BFRB problematic. Is it a symptom of something deeper, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, or OCD, or rather an isolated issue? Are BFRBs hereditary—can the repetitive compulsion be passed down? We also examine the connection between skin picking and perfectionism, along with the deeper psychological and emotional factors that drive these behaviors. Plus, we take a closer look at the role of compulsions and frustration in maintaining BFRBs, how can they be treated, or perhaps even accepted, and practical strategies for managing and resisting the urge to pick, pull, bite, or chew.
If you're seeking answers and support, this episode is packed with insights to help you take control of your BFRB or support someone you know who struggles with this condition.
To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast
To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself
To follow Nate on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ocdandanxietyonline
Nate’s self-directed course for hair-pulling/skin-picking:  www.ocd-anxiety.com
Nate’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/ocdandanxiety
 
The most common Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) include:
Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder) – Compulsively pulling out hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas of the body.Dermatillomania (Skin-Picking Disorder/Excoriation Disorder) – Repeatedly picking at the skin, often leading to wounds, scarring, or infections.Onychophagia (Chronic Nail Biting) – Habitual nail biting that can cause damage to the nails and surrounding skin.Lip Biting (Lip Chewing Disorder) – Biting or chewing on the lips, sometimes to the point of causing sores or bleeding.Cheek Biting (Morsicatio Buccarum) – Biting the inside of the cheeks, leading to irritation, sores, or thickened skin.Rhinotillexomania (Compulsive Nose Picking) – Frequent and intense nose picking that can result in nasal damage or infections.

PMDD: Understanding & Managing Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder with Sharryn Muir

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe and often debilitating condition that affects millions of women worldwide. Unlike typical PMS, PMDD can trigger extreme mood swings, intense depression, anxiety, rage, and overwhelming physical symptoms, making daily life feel unbearable. Despite its profound impact, PMDD remains widely misunderstood, frequently misdiagnosed, and often dismissed by medical professionals, leaving many women feeling isolated and without answers.
In this episode of The Happier Life Project, host Gabby Sanderson speaks with Sharryn Muir, a clinical psychologist who has dedicated her career to working exclusively with clients experiencing PMDD and menopause. As the founder of the Northern Psychology Centre in Australia, Sharryn has been at the forefront of educating doctors, conducting public seminars, and developing a PMDD treatment app to help women who struggle to access professional support. Her passion for this work comes from personal experience, having faced the challenges of PMDD herself.
Gabby and Sharryn explore the harsh realities of PMDD, from its severe emotional and physical toll to the frustrating lack of awareness in the medical community. They discuss who is most at risk, why so many women go undiagnosed for years, and the latest medical treatment options available, including how effective they really are. Sharryn also opens up about her own journey with PMDD, what finally helped her, and why she’s committed to breaking the stigma and ensuring better treatment for those suffering.
If you or someone you know has been affected by PMDD, or if you experience debilitating symptoms related to your menstrual cycle for half of every month, this episode offers vital insight, expert knowledge, and the reassurance that you are not alone. Tune in for an honest, informative, and much-needed conversation about a condition that deserves more recognition and support.
To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcastTo follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself
Links for support and education on PMDD and how to reach Sharryn Muir:
International Association for Premenstrual Disorders (IAPMD)www.iapmd.org
PMDD Treatment App (for Apple)https://apps.apple.com/au/app/pmdd-treatment/id1568467292
PMDD Treatment App (for Android)https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app.pmddtreatment
Northern Psychology Centrehttps://www.northernpsychology.org/sharryn-muir
HER Centre Australia (Monash Alfred Research Centre)https://www.monash.edu/medicine/her-centre

Slowing Down on Purpose: Gabby on Hustle Culture, Panic Attacks & Workaholism with Risa Williams

In this special episode of The Happier Life Project, the tables are turned as host Gabby Sanderson steps into the guest seat. Interviewed by psychotherapist, time management coach, and author Risa Williams (Get Stuff Done Without the Stress), Gabby shares her personal journey through the highs and lows of working in media and tech—where relentless hustle came at a steep cost.
Together, they dive into the dangers of hustle culture, the pressure to always be “on,” and the moment Gabby realized she was burning out. She opens up about how pushing too hard led to panic attacks, a panic disorder diagnosis, and the difficult but necessary decision to slow down on purpose.
This interview was originally recorded for Risa’s award winning podcast “The Motivation Mindset”. To celebrate the release of Risa’s new book “Get Stuff Done Without the Stress,” as this interview covers a lot of topics from the book, Risa kindly allowed us to share it with you here. 
If you've ever felt trapped in the grind or struggled to find balance, you will relate to Gabby’s story. Tune in for real talk, hard-earned lessons, and practical insights on how to reclaim your time and mental well-being.
To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast
To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself
To follow Risa Williams on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/risawilliamstherapy/
Risa Williams website: www.risawilliams.com
Risa’s book Get Stuff Done Without The Stress: https://www.amazon.com/Get-Stuff-Done-Without-Stress/dp/1684816874/

Unseen Childhood Scars: Healing from Complex PTSD with Linda Meredith

Developmental trauma refers to the impact of early, repeated trauma and loss within a child’s most important relationships. This typically occurs in the earliest years of life. This kind of trauma isn’t always loud or obvious. It can be subtle; emotional neglect we don’t remember, an abandonment wound that lingers beneath the surface, or toxic stress that quietly eats away. All of this we carry into adulthood, taking a toll on our well-being.
Developmental trauma occurring before the age of five—officially termed childhood developmental trauma—falls under the broader category of complex trauma, also known as Complex PTSD (CPTSD). Its effects can last a lifetime. While it often stems from childhood, complex trauma can also develop through repeated distressing experiences in adulthood. The weight of unresolved trauma can manifest in our bodies, our relationships, and our mental health... without us even realizing its origin.
Guest Linda Meredith, is a highly respected leader in trauma recovery, renowned for her innovative approaches to Complex PTSD (CPTSD) healing. As an accredited Pioneer Training Provider and Clinical Complex Trauma Professional, Linda coaches and educates individuals globally. She is the founder of Healing from Complex PTSD and holds several significant firsts in the field, including being Australia’s first Certified Trauma Recovery Coach and Supervisor, the world’s first Advanced NPE Trauma Recovery Coach, and the CEO of the International Complex Trauma Association.
Speaking with host Gabby Sanderson, Linda unpacks the difference between PTSD and Complex PTSD, also breaking down how childhood developmental trauma can manifest in our lives. Linda highlights the importance of protecting ourselves from people we don’t fully know or trust, explaining why setting boundaries around vulnerability is crucial whilst on your complex trauma recovery journey.
Healing from trauma isn’t about fixing what’s broken, it’s about reclaiming the lost parts of ourselves. Linda believes Complex PTSD recovery is possible and happens one step at a time. The complex trauma expert also shares a couple of simple techniques to calm the nervous system after being triggered, and opens up about her own journey with CPTSD. At 38, suppressed childhood trauma surfaced, leaving her bedridden and unable to walk, talk, bathe, or feed herself—requiring full-time care. With incredible determination, Linda began rebuilding her abilities, ultimately transforming her own recovery into a mission to help others never have to face the long recovery she did.
To download the free My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcastTo follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleselfTo follow Linda Meredith on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healingfromcomplexptsd/Linda’s Website: https://www.cptsdeducation.com/Linda’s free Complex Trauma Peer Support Group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/complextptsd/

Cultivating Confidence: Building Resilience, Boundaries & Connection with Minaa B.

Confidence is a word we hear often, but what does it really mean—and why is it so elusive? Psychologists suggest that up to 50% of the traits linked to confidence may be inherited, but genes are just one piece of the puzzle. Cultural influences, childhood experiences, societal pressures, and even the impact of social media shape how we see ourselves and how much we trust in our abilities. Add to that family expectations and media messages that fuel insecurities, and it’s no wonder confidence feels out of reach for so many of us.
True confidence isn’t about arrogance or feeling superior. It’s a quiet, secure belief in yourself and your capabilities. And while some people might find confidence comes naturally, for others, it takes intentional work. That’s where guest, Minaa B., comes in. Minaa is a mental health educator, speaker, and author of the transformative book 'Owning Our Struggles: A Path to Healing and Finding Community in a Broken World'. She’s also the founder of I’m So Mature, a media company blending pop culture, music, and personal healing. With over a decade of clinical experience, Minaa helps others cultivate confidence, self-care, and self-advocacy through the lens of boundaries and community care.
In this episode, host Gabby Sanderson chats with Minaa about what it really takes to build confidence—and why it’s something we must work at. Together, they explore how to recover when life knocks your confidence, build mental resilience, and set healthier boundaries in relationships. Minaa also explains why facing fear and taking risks are essential to personal growth and connection. Plus, Minaa breaks-down how we end up creating our own anxiety when we compare ourselves to others.Tune in for an inspiring conversation that’s not just about confidence but about reclaiming your sense of self and finding the courage to be seen.
To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcastTo follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleselfTo follow Minaa B. on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minaa_bMinaa’s Website: https://www.minaab.com/

Masterclass: Unhook and Let Go of Unhelpful Thoughts with Dr. Russ Harris

We all experience negative thoughts—those persistent voices in our heads that seem to weigh us down. Research shows that over 80% of our thoughts are negative, and when we focus too much on them, they can lead to challenges like social anxiety, depression, stress, and low self-esteem. Whether these thoughts are true or not, we often believe them, allowing them to dominate our emotions and lives, leaving us feeling deeply unhappy.
But what if there was a better way to handle those pesky voices in our heads?In this episode of The Happier Life Project, we revisit one of the most popular and impactful conversations from our archives with the prestigious Dr. Russ Harris. Dr. Harris is the bestselling author of The Happiness Trap (along with eight other books), a doctor, therapist, world-renowned trainer in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and a consultant to the World Health Organization. His simple and effective exercises on YouTube, which help you master your mind, have collectively garnered an impressive 7.5 million views.
In this insightful conversation, Dr. Russ challenges the conventional idea that negative thoughts are inherently bad and positive thoughts are always good. Instead, he introduces the ACT approach, which focuses on accepting your thoughts and learning to defuse from the unhelpful ones. Worrying, catastrophizing, obsessing, ruminating... Dr. Russ unpacks why getting caught up in these streams of unhelpful thoughts is actually your mind’s way of trying to protect you. He also dives into why his approach can be so effective, and you’ll even get the chance to try some simple yet powerful exercises during the next 40 minutes.
Packed with insights and actionable advice, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to better navigate their inner world.
To download the free My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself To check out Dr. Russ YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@dr.russharris-acceptanceco972?si=vAEIP31ns56PRoJFTo follow Dr. Russ on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happiness_trap_programTo try Dr. Russ dropping anchor exercises find on the My Possible Self App.

Disengaging with Depression: How to Take Back Control with James Withey

This week, we're revisiting one of our most powerful conversations from the first season of the podcast, back when we were known as My Possible Self. January is often considered the most depressing month of the year—cold, dark, and weighed down by the emotional and financial fallout of the holidays. But beyond the January blues, this episode takes a broader look at depression, a condition that impacts millions worldwide.
Guest, James Withey, is an acclaimed author, counselor, and mental health advocate with firsthand experience navigating clinical depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Drawing from his bestselling book 'How to Tell Depression to P**s Off' and his other impactful works, James offers practical strategies to take back control from depression.
In this episode, James delves into why depression is a life-threatening illness that demands attention and care, shares coping techniques to create distance from its grip, and reveals why recovery lies in finding purpose and meaning. He also provides insights into doing the opposite of what depression urges you to do and shares hope for anyone feeling overwhelmed by its weight.
Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions of suicidal thoughts and attempts. If you or someone you know is struggling, please seek professional help immediately and proceed listening with caution, however James’ story and strategies may offer hope and help.
Listen now to gain valuable tools and inspiration to face depression head-on.
To download the free My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast To follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleself To follow Dr. Kelly Vincent on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jameswwithey/James Withey's Website: https://www.jameswithey.com/