Facing the Big Questions: Anxiety, Meaning & the Dilemmas We All Share with Dr Amanda Ferguson (Part 1)
Why does anxiety still show up—even when life looks good on paper? In this deeply human conversation, Dr Jodi Richardson welcomes psychologist, author, and hypnotherapist Dr Amanda Ferguson to explore the profound link between anxiety and the existential dilemmas we all face. In Part 1, they unpack the five universal challenges—freedom vs. responsibility, meaning, isolation, mortality, and the weight of choice—and how these shape our internal worlds, often without us realising. Dr Ferguson shares real-world insights from her 30+ years in practice, plus empowering ways to approach life’s toughest questions with honesty, courage, and self-compassion. Whether you're feeling stuck, facing a crossroads, or simply navigating the tension of being human, this episode offers fresh language and clarity for the anxiety that comes with just being alive. Learn more about Dr Amanda Ferguson Website: www.dramandaferguson.com Podcast: Psyched for Life Instagram: @dr_amanda_ferguson Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Out of Survival Mode: Finding Calm with Harriet Iles (Part 2)
Welcome to Part 2 of my heartfelt conversation with psychologist Harriet Iles, founder of Restorative Space Psychology. If you haven’t yet listened to Part 1, we encourage you to go back - this episode builds on the powerful insights we shared last week about befriending anxiety with compassion and curiosity. In this episode, we dive deeper into the nervous system—what it is, how it works, and why understanding our stress states is essential for emotional wellbeing. Together, we explore: What “regulation” actually means and how to practise it in everyday life The five common nervous system responses: fight, flight, freeze, flop, and fawn How to identify which state you’re in—even when you’re not sure why you’re triggered Grounding techniques and sensory strategies to help you return to calm Why self-compassion isn’t just helpful—it’s vital for healing With Harriet’s gentle guidance and evidence-based insights, this episode offers real tools for navigating life’s unpredictability—one breath, one moment at a time. 🧠 Learn more about Harriet Iles and Restorative Space Psychology: Website: restorativespacepsychology.com Instagram: @restorativespacepsychology Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Harriet Iles on Anxiety as a Messenger, Not a Monster (Part 1)
What if anxiety isn’t something to battle, but something to listen to? In this powerful episode, Dr. Jodi Richardson is joined once again by psychologist Harriet Iles for a deeply compassionate conversation about learning to befriend anxiety rather than resist it. Together, they unpack how reframing your relationship with anxiety - by approaching it with curiosity, kindness and self-awareness - can transform the way it impacts your life. You’ll learn: Why anxiety is a messenger, not a flaw The difference between fear and anxiety—and how to respond to both How to build your capacity to move through discomfort instead of getting stuck in it The lifestyle pillars that support nervous system regulation Practical, everyday strategies for grounding, soothing and resetting Whether you live with an anxiety disorder or simply feel overwhelmed by life’s pressures, this episode will leave you feeling understood, equipped, and empowered. Connect with Harriet Iles:Harriet is the founder of Restorative Space Psychology in Sydney and works with clients online across Australia.Find out more or book at: restorativespacepsychology.comFollow on Instagram: @restorativespacepsychology Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Where Do Babies Come From? Helping Kids Understand Their Bodies and Build Trust with Michelle Mitchell
Let’s be honest—talking to our kids about sex, puberty and where babies come from can bring up more anxiety for us than them. In this episode, Dr. Jodi Richardson is joined by educator, author, and parenting expert Michelle Mitchell to guide parents through these tricky conversations with compassion, clarity, and confidence. Drawing from decades of experience and her brand new book, Where Do Babies Come From? And Other Questions 8 to 12 Year Olds Ask, Michelle shares: Why early and age-appropriate conversations are crucial How to use humour and honesty to create a safe space What to do when you feel awkward or anxious as a parent Why giving kids the right words gives them the power to speak up The difference between replacing vs. reinforcing your role as the trusted adult You’ll also hear hilarious real-life questions from kids, how to flip common fears parents hold, and why giving your child a book should never be a substitute for a conversation. Whether you’ve had “the talk” or are dreading it, this episode will equip you with tools, language, and courage to start and sustain open dialogue with your kids. 📚 Michelle’s Books: Where Do Babies Come From? And Other Questions 8 to 12 Year Olds Ask A Guy’s Guide to Puberty A Girl’s Guide to Puberty 🛒 Where to purchase Children’s Books: michellemitchell.org Parenting Books: Available at all major retailers including Amazon and Booktopia Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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From Burnout to Blue Therapy | Healing PTSD Through the Ocean with Amanda Battle
After workplace trauma left her with PTSD and chronic fatigue, former high school teacher Amanda Battle found herself unable to work, physically depleted, and emotionally shut down. But one unexpected invitation—to a free diving retreat—set in motion a powerful journey of recovery and reconnection. In this deeply moving conversation, Dr. Jodi Richardson and Amanda explore: 🌊 The science and soul of “blue therapy” and why the ocean is so calming for an anxious mind🫁 How freediving helped Amanda reclaim her breath, strength, and sense of self📷 The birth of Women of Water, Amanda’s stunning ocean-based photo project and coffee table book🌀 The power of embodiment, community, and saying “yes” when everything inside you says “no” Now a surf coach and underwater photographer, Amanda has not only transformed her own life—she’s helping hundreds of other women connect with healing, identity, and calm through the water. Follow Amanda:📷 @oceans.of.love.photography📘 Women of Water available at: womenofwater.com.au Connect with me: https://linktr.ee/drjodirichardson?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqDVAw_zhoG3IXGRhgjn-J14BFJy50ztJbCHywMfZobVH12nX1USMbisI_aem_QViUbKkXHlwbD3y4kGcvGQSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Our minds didn’t evolve for modern day life. It’s natural to feel anxious, but sometimes we can get stuck in a cycle of anxiety that gets in the way of, well, everything. If you’re looking for a compassionate place to learn how to dial anxiety down and get on with creating a happier life with more calm, contentment, meaning and purpose, this is the podcast for you.Well, hello anxiety is hosted by anxiety and well-being speaker, educator and bestselling author Dr Jodi Richardson. Through open and honest conversations Jodi and her guests share expertise, inspiration and practical strategies to help you rise to the challenge of being human with the tools you need to thrive.
For education and entertainment purposes only.
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