The Happier Life Project

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/

High-Functioning Anxiety: Reclaiming Time, Energy & Calm in 2025 with Dr. Kelly Vincent

In this episode of The Happier Life Project, host Gabby Sanderson is joined by Dr. Kelly Vincent, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in supporting women through trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, and imposter syndrome. Together, they explore high-functioning anxiety and how to shake off the relentless pressures of hustle culture.
As 2025 begins and many reflect on the changes they want to make and how they envision the year ahead, Dr. Kelly shares actionable strategies for setting small, meaningful, and achievable goals that pave the way to genuine, sustainable success. Listeners will learn how to reclaim their time, energy, and peace of mind with practical tools designed to promote clarity and calm.
Dr. Kelly Vincent is the founder of Nourished Wellness Group, a holistic mental health practice in California, and Movement Therapy Spaces, a co-working hub for wellness professionals. She is committed to integrating mind and body in therapeutic care, using approaches such as EMDR, yoga therapy, walk-and-talk therapy, somatic experiencing, and nervous system education. Dr. Vincent is also the author of 'True You: A Self-Discovery Journal' and the creator of Studio Nourished, a digital platform dedicated to relearning, restoring, releasing, and regulating.
This episode offers a compassionate guide for anyone looking to escape the cycle of overachievement and hustle culture to find more joy and balance in daily life. Dr. Kelly discusses with Gabby the power of self-awareness in managing anxiety and the importance of setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and redefining what success looks like.
For anyone who’s ever felt like they’re doing everything and still not doing enough, this episode offers valuable insights and support. Dr. Kelly highlights the importance of noticing the stream of messages and content we consume online and reflecting on how they shape our belief systems. She encourages listeners to pause and ask, "Is this content serving me?"
Tune in to this empowering conversation and discover how to start the new year with purpose, grace, and a renewed sense of balance.
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/dr.kellyvincent/Dr. Kelly’s Website: https://www.drkellyvincent.com/Nourished Wellness Group: https://www.nourishedwellnessgroup.com/To follow Nourished Wellness Group on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nourishedwellnessgroup/

Seasonal Stress: Managing Christmas Anxiety & Holiday Dread

In this special episode of The Happier Life Project, we’re rebroadcasting a Christmas-themed conversation from two years ago with Joshua Fletcher. A leading psychotherapist, best-selling author, and renowned anxiety expert, Joshua has devoted his career to helping people understand and manage anxiety in all its forms.
Chatting with host Gabby Sanderson, Joshua explores the pitfalls of chasing ‘the perfect Christmas’ and explains why letting go of unrealistic expectations is healthier for our mental well-being. He shares invaluable advice on navigating family gatherings, including how to handle difficult relatives by setting boundaries and prioritizing your own happiness. Joshua also highlights the importance of showing ourselves compassion during January, a time when post-holiday pressures often surface. Additionally, he provides practical tips for managing anxiety at holiday parties, breaking free from people-pleasing habits, and making time for self-care—even during the busiest season.
Whether you’re bracing for the Christmas chaos or dreading what the season might bring, this episode is packed with insights and actionable strategies to help you not only survive but thrive this festive season. Tune in now for a fresh perspective and a healthy dose of reassurance to help you wrap up the year on a calmer, more balanced note.
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 Joshua on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anxietyjoshWebsite: https://www.schoolofanxiety.com/Joshua’s podcast: The Panic Pod

Coping at Christmas with Dr Claire Plumbly

Christmas is often seen as a time of joy and celebration, but for many, it can feel quite the opposite—stressful, lonely, or even overwhelming. According to the National Institute of Health, this season can exacerbate mental health challenges, especially for those already struggling.
To help navigate the festive pressures, we revisit a special episode of The Happier Life Project featuring Dr Claire Plumbly, Clinical Psychologist and Director of Good Therapy Ltd, a psychological therapy centre based online and in Taunton, Somerset. Specializing in anxiety, trauma, and burnout, Dr Claire is also the author of 'Burnout: How to Manage Your Nervous System Before It Manages You,' available in the UK now and launching in the USA as 'The Trauma of Burnout on January 23, 2025.'
This episode is a repeat of The Happier Life Project’s ‘Ask The Expert’ series, where listeners and My Possible Self app users send in their questions for host Gabby to pose to a mental health or wellness professional. Dr Claire was on hand to offer advice on all things Christmas-related, packed with practical tips and compassionate advice, this episode was so impactful we felt it deserved to be shared again. 
Dr Claire offers invaluable advice on implementing financial boundaries to avoid overspending, coping with unpredictable or excessively drinking family members, and honouring lost loved ones while managing grief during the holidays. She also shares guidance on easing social anxiety, addressing fears around food or overeating, and tackling the stress of feeling obligated to be happy and jolly throughout the season.
Whether you missed it the first time or need a refresher, it’s a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the challenges of the Christmas season with greater ease and resilience.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 Claire Plumbly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drclaireplumbly/ Dr Claire’s Website: www.drclaireplumbly.com To buy Dr Claire’s Burnout book: www.drclaireplumbly.com/burnout-book

Love, Loneliness & Giving Back: Reverend and the Makers' Holiday Mission with Jon McClure

To kick off The Happier Life Project’s festive December episodes, host Gabby Sanderson welcomes a very special guest: Jon McClure, frontman of the chart-topping band Reverend and the Makers. In this heartfelt conversation, Jon shares the inspiration behind the band’s poignant Christmas single ‘Late Night Phone Call’ and their decision to partner with The Samaritans for its release.
Christmas is often seen as a time of joy and togetherness, but for many, it can also be a season of loneliness and emotional struggle. With ‘Late Night Phone Call’, Jon and the band aim to shine a light on the vital support that Samaritans volunteers provide to those who need someone to listen, especially during the festive period.
In the candid chat, Jon opens up about why this cause resonates deeply with him, and the powerful personal experiences that have shaped his perspective. He also reveals the unique way he spends Christmas Day, creating connection and comfort for those who find themselves alone during the holidays. Additionally, Jon opens up to Gabby about his family facing their first Christmas without his dad, as well as how his recent ADHD diagnosis has only strengthened his lifelong commitment to making music.
Samaritans provides free, 24/7 emotional support every day of the year, including Christmas Day. Last year, more than 1,200 volunteers gave their time to answer over 6,700 calls on Christmas Day alone, ensuring no one has to face difficult times alone.With the help of public donations and the dedication of over 23,000 volunteers, Samaritans supports people via phone, email, letter, face-to-face meetings, and online chat. Just £10 could help Samaritans answer a call for help from someone struggling to cope. If you or someone you know needs support, call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
Tune in to hear Jon’s powerful story, his passion for connection, and how music continues to be a constant source of purpose and creativity in his life. Support the single ‘Late Night Phone Call’ by purchasing, streaming, watching the music video on YouTube, sharing with your friends and donating to The Samaritans. All the info can be found on the band's Instagram page: @reverend_makers
To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcastTo follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleselfTo follow Reverend and the Makers on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reverend_makers/To follow The Samaritan’s on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samaritanscharity/

Perfectly Imperfect: Breaking Free from the Perfectionism Trap with Vassia Sarantopoulou

In this episode of The Happier Life Project, we delve into the exhausting pursuit of perfection and its impact on mental health. Perfectionism is a word that gets thrown around a lot; many people proudly claim the label, seeing it as a positive trait. And, at times, it can be—perfectionism can drive ambition, discipline, and high achievement. However, research has consistently linked perfectionism to various mental health challenges, including anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and eating disorders.
Joining host Gabby Sanderson is Vassia Sarantopoulou, a highly respected psychologist and founder of AntiLoneliness, who is also a recovering perfectionist. Vassia works with ambitious professionals and entrepreneurs who feel stuck in cycles of overthinking and perfectionism, overwhelmed by stress and burnout, and unable to stay focused or find joy in a demanding world. Her mission is to help impact-makers transform perfectionism into progress, increase productivity without sacrificing well-being, and achieve sustainable success.
In this conversation, Vassia unpacks the complexities of perfectionism and its toll on mental health. She discusses the fine line between healthy striving and the debilitating need to be flawless, offering insights into how perfectionism can trap us in cycles of self-doubt, fear, and burnout. Gabby and Vassia also explore how societal pressures and personal fears fuel the need to be impeccable, and how today’s “hustle culture” has exacerbated perfectionism in the workplace.
Vassia shares practical strategies to break free from the relentless pressure to be perfect—especially for those who may struggle during the holidays with the pressure to create the "perfect Christmas." This candid conversation provides tools to quiet the inner critic, set healthier expectations, and embrace self-compassion as a powerful tool for growth.
Whether you grapple with perfectionism yourself, know someone who does, or are simply curious about its psychological effects, this episode offers valuable guidance and encouragement to overcome the paralyzing fear of imperfection and live a happier, healthier, and more authentic life.
To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcastTo follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleselfTo follow Vassia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vassia.sar/Vassia’s website's: www.antiloneliness.com / www.vassiasar.com Download Vassia’s free guide '7 tips to stop overthinking': https://vassiasar.kit.com/7-tips-overthinking

The Psychology Behind Your Spending & How to Improve Your Relationship with Money with Vicky Reynal

Money is more than just a tool for paying bills or buying things, it can be deeply symbolic and emotionally charged. For many, financial struggles are closely intertwined with mental health challenges. Research conducted by the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, revealed that in England alone, over 1.5 million people struggle with both problem debt and mental health issues. Of those surveyed, 86% said their financial situation had worsened their mental health.
Becoming more aware of how our thoughts, emotions, and past experiences shape our money habits, may not magically solve financial hardships, but it can be a positive step toward building a healthier relationship with money and regaining a sense of control. The complexities of money, which is crucial for our survival, highlight the profound connection between financial well-being and mental health, offering a pathway to greater understanding and empowerment.
The Happier Life Project welcomes Vicky Reynal a London-based psychotherapist specialising in the psychology of money. Vicky is author of the award-winning book 'Money on Your Mind: The Psychology Behind Your Financial Habits', which is being translated into eight languages, and will land in the US on January 7th (available to pre order now). In her psychotherapy clinic, Vicky works with clients on a range of issues including; debt, excessive greed, financial conflict, and money secrecy. Using psychodynamic principles, she helps people uncover and address the emotions driving their financial behaviours. Vicky’s expertise has been featured in The Financial Times, The Guardian, The Times, The Daily Mail and Psychologies.
​​In this episode of The Happier Life Project host Gabby Sanderson speaks to Vicky about why money can feel so emotionally charged, and why people often react defensively when it comes to financial matters. Vicky explains how decoding the hidden emotions behind spending, saving, and financial conflict, can help foster understanding and drive meaningful change. The money and mental health expert also explains why being more open and honest in communication about our finances—whether with friends, family members, or even bill companies—can help alleviate stress and build a healthier relationship with our bank balance. By addressing financial concerns directly, rather than burying our heads in the sand and reacting with "vague defences" like avoidance or procrastination, Vicky discusses how most people feel much better after opening up, realising that often things aren’t as bad as they seemed.
Vicky also shares practical advice on creating a healthier relationship with money to reduce stress and improve mental well-being. Tune in to discover how decoding the emotional connection to your finances can transform your mental wellness, and your approach to money.
To download the My Possible Self app: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcastTo follow My Possible Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mypossibleselfTo follow Vicky Reynal on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vickyreynalpsychotherapy/Vicky’s website: https://www.reynal-psychotherapist.co.uk/Buy now Vicky’s book: Money on Your Mind: The Psychology Behind Your Financial Habits