A Bigger Life Podcast

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In this empowering episode Nichi sits down with Belinda Bayliss, founder and CEO of Flourishing Beyond Limits, to discuss the often unseen and unspoken challenges of midlife for women. Belinda shares her personal journey through early menopause following cancer treatment, shedding light on the invisible struggles women face with hormonal changes, brain fog, and feelings of being stuck or unseen. Together, they explore the importance of raising awareness about perimenopause, debunking myths around HRT, and embracing strategies for strength, mobility, and self-nourishment. Belinda also emphasises the value of connection and community, highlighting how women can reclaim their health, confidence, and power in midlife. 

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

1. Midlife as an Invisible Transition:
   • Midlife, particularly the transition through perimenopause and menopause, is often an invisible and unspoken challenge for women. 
2. The Impact of Estrogen on Women's Health:
   • Estrogen changes happen at three key life stages: puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. However, while the first two are socially accepted and supported, menopause is often ignored or misunderstood.
   • Brain fog, memory loss, and emotional changes are common but often mistaken for early dementia or stress.
3. The Need for Greater Awareness and Education:
   • There's a lack of education for both women and health professionals about the complexities of menopause and perimenopause.

    4.  Practical Strategies for Midlife Health & Flourishing:

• Physical Strength & Mobility, nutrition, community & connection and self-nourishment strategies are discussed.

   5. Belinda's Mission with Flourishing Beyond Limits:

• To empower women in midlife to flourish, feel strong, and embrace this stage of life with confidence and health.
• She offers personalised one-on-one coaching, group courses, and will soon be launching a podcast focused on midlife women.

📢 Connect with Belinda Bayliss

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishing_beyond_limits/#
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552008063600 
• Website: Coming soon!

Thank you for listening to A Bigger Life Podcast.  If you enjoy this episode please SUBSCRIBE to our show to stay informed. You are also keenly invited to give us a rating as well. 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nichimorrin/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nichimorrin/
To purchase Nichi's book Girl, Get out of the Freaking Car!  - Please contact us via social media                                                                                                        
Psychology services - www.rewiredpsychology.com.au

Previous Intro and Outro music: Inspirational Acoustic - Organic Harmony by Sonican; and Andrii Poradovskyi; and levgen Poltavskyi from Pixabay.  Current music:  Music by Vlad Krotov  from Pixabay.  
Disclaimer: This content is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only.  It is not deemed as psychological treatment and does not replace the advice from your health professional or need for psychological treatment.  

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In this episode Nichi highlights the new and exciting transformation for the podcast and the brand change to Shine the Spotlight: Unseen, Unspoken & Unstoppable. 

Key Takeaways:

• Exciting Podcast Update:
  • The Sustainable Success Series has been rebranded to Shine the Spotlight: Unseen, Unspoken & Unstoppable to better reflect the mission of highlighting unseen challenges, unspoken truths, and unstoppable resilience.
• Who is This Podcast For?
  • Those navigating invisible conditions, emotional burdens, or personal obstacles.
  • Individuals with stories that deserve to be heard, whether unspoken, unsolved, overlooked, or hidden in the shadows.
  • The unstoppable ones who choose to adapt and keep moving forward.
• What to Expect:
  • Inspiring guests sharing personal journeys and advocacy work.
  • Honest conversations exploring resilience, courage, and connection.
  • Practical strategies to foster understanding and promote awareness.
  • Celebrating both monumental and small but powerful wins.
• Have a Story to Share?
  • If you or someone you know has a story about an unseen challenge, an unspoken truth, or a moment of unstoppable resilience, Nichi would love to hear from you!
  • Reach out via email: [email protected] or connect on social media.
• Ways to Support:
  • Subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with someone who needs to hear it.
  • Help shine the spotlight on important stories that can inspire and support others.

💖 Final Thoughts:

• You are seen, you are heard, and you are unstoppable.
• Together, let’s continue to shine the spotlight where it’s needed most.

Thank you for listening to A Bigger Life Podcast.  If you enjoy this episode please SUBSCRIBE to our show to stay informed. You are also keenly invited to give us a rating as well. 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nichimorrin/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nichimorrin/
To purchase Nichi's book Girl, Get out of the Freaking Car!  - Please contact us via social media                                                                                                        
Psychology services - www.rewiredpsychology.com.au

Previous Intro and Outro music: Inspirational Acoustic - Organic Harmony by Sonican; and Andrii Poradovskyi; and levgen Poltavskyi from Pixabay.  Current music:  Music by Vlad Krotov  from Pixabay.  
Disclaimer: This content is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only.  It is not deemed as psychological treatment and does not replace the advice from your health professional or need for psychological treatment.  

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In this episode of the Sustainable Success Series, Nichi dives deep into the impact of a hyperactive nervous system—a state where the body is stuck in overdrive, running on stress hormones instead of sustainable energy. If you feel constantly anxious, wired but exhausted, struggle with digestion, fatigue, brain fog, or hormonal imbalances, your nervous system may be stuck in fight-or-flight mode.

We explore:

• What a hyperactive nervous system is and how it hijacks your body and mind.
• The connection between chronic stress, nervous system dysregulation, and conditions like POTS, hypermobility, PCOS, fibromyalgia, ADHD, trauma, and long COVID, etc.
• Why so many people post-COVID are experiencing worsened fatigue, anxiety, gut issues, sleep disturbances, and hormonal imbalances.
• How to retrain your nervous system to restore balance and stop feeling stuck in survival mode.

Key Takeaways:

🔹 A hyperactive nervous system = chronic stress mode. Your body is running on adrenaline and cortisol, making it hard to rest and recover.

🔹 Common symptoms include: Anxiety, fatigue, gut issues, sleep disturbances, hormonal imbalances, brain fog, and difficulty relaxing.

🔹 Post-COVID, more people than ever are stuck in this state. The global trauma of the pandemic has left many with lingering nervous system dysregulation.

🔹 You can retrain your nervous system. Healing starts with nervous system regulation techniques, including:

• Breathwork: Box breathing, extended exhales.
• Vagus nerve stimulation: Humming, singing, gargling.
• Gentle movement: Yoga, stretching, walking, shaking exercises.
• Creating a safe environment: Reducing overstimulation, adjusting lighting, using grounding techniques.
• Mindset shifts: Reframing stress and creating micro-moments of calm.

🔹 NEW! 🎉 Tame the Nervous System – 6-Week Program
If you’re struggling with chronic stress, nervous system dysregulation, sleep issues, fatigue, etc., this live and interactive program is for you! It includes:
✅ Weekly coaching sessions
✅ Tools to regulate your nervous system and build resilience
✅ Practical strategies to create sustainable success in your life

📌 Join the program & help your nervous system slow down, feel safe, and reclaim your energy - The link to find out more is:

https://nichole-morrin.mykajabi.com/ahhrp-program

Thank you for listening to A Bigger Life Podcast.  If you enjoy this episode please SUBSCRIBE to our show to stay informed. You are also keenly invited to give us a rating as well. 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nichimorrin/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nichimorrin/
To purchase Nichi's book Girl, Get out of the Freaking Car!  - Please contact us via social media                                                                                                        
Psychology services - www.rewiredpsychology.com.au

Previous Intro and Outro music: Inspirational Acoustic - Organic Harmony by Sonican; and Andrii Poradovskyi; and levgen Poltavskyi from Pixabay.  Current music:  Music by Vlad Krotov  from Pixabay.  
Disclaimer: This content is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only.  It is not deemed as psychological treatment and does not replace the advice from your health professional or need for psychological treatment.  

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In this episode, host Nichi Morrin dives into the unique wiring of ADHD brains, exploring how natural drive, creativity, and passion can lead to incredible accomplishments—but also to burnout if not managed effectively. Nichi shares her personal journey as a driven ADHD entrepreneur and psychologist, offering strategies grounded in neuroscience and psychology to help individuals harness their strengths sustainably.

Join us as we flip the narrative on ADHD, celebrating its strengths while learning to work with the challenges. Nichi provides actionable strategies to align your energy with your goals without sacrificing your health.

Key Takeways:

• The unique strengths and challenges of ADHD, including its connection to dopamine and drive.
• The difference between chasing dopamine hits and being in a state of flow.
• How ADHD drive can lead to burnout and chronic health issues when not properly managed.
• Five practical strategies to harness ADHD strengths sustainably.
• How to create a life that suits your brain and aligns with your goals.

Resources Mentioned:

• Downloadable Resource: Get the five strategies discussed in this episode here: https://nichole-morrin.mykajabi.com/pl/2148622421
• Nichi’s Book: Girl, Get Out of the Freaking Car – A guide to overcoming fear, embracing your worth, and living your fullest life. You can purchase here: https://thesuccessfulzebrastore.myshopify.com/ 

Connect With Us:

• Follow The Million Seen Movement on Instagram and Facebook.
• Share your thoughts on this episode in the comments or send a message!

Closing Thoughts:
You don’t have to burn out to be brilliant. Sustainable success is about celebrating your strengths while honoring your body’s needs for balance. Let’s continue this journey together—tune in next time for more inspiring insights and practical strategies.

Thank you for listening to A Bigger Life Podcast.  If you enjoy this episode please SUBSCRIBE to our show to stay informed. You are also keenly invited to give us a rating as well. 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nichimorrin/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nichimorrin/
To purchase Nichi's book Girl, Get out of the Freaking Car!  - Please contact us via social media                                                                                                        
Psychology services - www.rewiredpsychology.com.au

Previous Intro and Outro music: Inspirational Acoustic - Organic Harmony by Sonican; and Andrii Poradovskyi; and levgen Poltavskyi from Pixabay.  Current music:  Music by Vlad Krotov  from Pixabay.  
Disclaimer: This content is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only.  It is not deemed as psychological treatment and does not replace the advice from your health professional or need for psychological treatment.  

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In this episode Nichi speaks with Katharine Mullings, a resilient mother of three, qualified counsellor, and advocate for living authentically with invisible conditions. Katharine shares her raw and powerful journey from living a healthy, carefree life to being diagnosed with three invisible illnesses—ankylosing spondylitis, celiac disease, and hypothyroidism—while raising her young family. She opens up about the challenges of navigating the UK's healthcare system, her experiences with acceptance, and the struggle for validation within medical and social spaces. Her story highlights the power of advocacy, persistence, and redefining success on your own terms.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Road to Diagnosis: Katharine discusses journey to being diagnosed with three invisible illnesses over a six-year period, and a physiotherapist who really listened.
2. The Power of Advocacy: Both Katharine and Nichi reflect on how vital it is for healthcare professionals to listen to patients. 
3. Living with Invisible Illnesses: Katharine opens up about the daily pain, fatigue, and unpredictability of life with ankylosing spondylitis. 
4. Acceptance vs. Resistance: The shift in mindset—from stubborn resistance to self-acceptance—was transformative in finding peace and redefining success. 
5. Pacing & Boundaries: Learning to pace activities and set boundaries was a key part of Katharine's journey. 
6. The Role of Identity & Self-Worth: Katharine reflects on how what  gave her a renewed sense of purpose, helping her reclaim herself beyond just being a mother or patient.
7. Social Isolation & Community: Katharine describes the emotional toll of isolation that comes with invisible illnesses and realising that connection and socialising were crucial to her mental well-being.
8. Adapting to a New Normal: Katharine learned to adapt to her “new normal” by focusing on values-driven living, prioritising quality time with family, walks by the coast, and maintaining meaningful relationships. 
9. Advice for Others Living with Invisible Conditions: Come to terms with your condition and recognise that it's okay to ask for help; Learn to pace yourself, even on good days, and avoid overdoing it; Surround yourself with supportive people who understand your experience and communicate your needs clearly to loved ones and healthcare providers.

Links:
Follow Katharine on Instagram:  
@ankylosingspondylitis_mumma
@theeastlondoncounsellor

Thank you for listening to A Bigger Life Podcast.  If you enjoy this episode please SUBSCRIBE to our show to stay informed. You are also keenly invited to give us a rating as well. 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nichimorrin/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nichimorrin/
To purchase Nichi's book Girl, Get out of the Freaking Car!  - Please contact us via social media                                                                                                        
Psychology services - www.rewiredpsychology.com.au

Previous Intro and Outro music: Inspirational Acoustic - Organic Harmony by Sonican; and Andrii Poradovskyi; and levgen Poltavskyi from Pixabay.  Current music:  Music by Vlad Krotov  from Pixabay.  
Disclaimer: This content is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only.  It is not deemed as psychological treatment and does not replace the advice from your health professional or need for psychological treatment.  

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In this episode we’re joined by Hannah Darby, a therapist and Reiki master who shares her inspiring journey of living with invisible illnesses, including IBS, chronic back pain, and ME/CFS. Hannah opens up about the emotional and physical challenges she’s faced, the grief associated with chronic conditions, and how these experiences redirected her path toward healing and helping others. She discusses practical strategies like pacing, gratitude journaling, and mindfulness, as well as the importance of finding supportive communities. Tune in to hear her empowering insights on turning adversity into purpose and creating a sustainable, fulfilling life while navigating invisible conditions.
Key Takeaways:

1. Living with Invisible Illnesses:
   • Invisible illnesses such as IBS, chronic back pain, ME/CFS, and trauma can significantly impact life despite not being physically visible.
2. The Emotional Impact:
   • Stress and emotional states heavily influence symptoms of invisible illnesses.
   • Grief plays a significant role, including grieving the person you once were or the life you imagined.
3. Journey of Healing and Transformation:
   • Hannah’s experience with grief, trauma, and invisible illnesses led her to discover alternative healing methods, such as Reiki and heart healing therapy.
   • Her path highlights the importance of slowing down, practicing self-care, and focusing on daily wins, even in challenging circumstances.
4. Practical Tips for Managing Invisible Conditions:
   • Physical Practices: Incorporating Pilates, daily stretches, and pacing can improve physical health and reduce symptom flares.
   • Mindset Shifts: Gratitude journaling and focusing on small wins help maintain a positive outlook.
   • Pacing: Stopping activities before exhaustion sets in and taking adequate rest are critical.
   • Community Support: Finding online communities and support groups can combat the isolation of invisible illnesses.
5. Navigating Relationships:
   • Maintaining supportive relationships and planning energy use around social activities can help preserve physical and emotional well-being.

Connect with Hannah:
https://healingwithhannah.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/hannahsdarby 
https://www.instagram.com/healingwithhannahd/

Thank you for listening to A Bigger Life Podcast.  If you enjoy this episode please SUBSCRIBE to our show to stay informed. You are also keenly invited to give us a rating as well. 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nichimorrin/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nichimorrin/
To purchase Nichi's book Girl, Get out of the Freaking Car!  - Please contact us via social media                                                                                                        
Psychology services - www.rewiredpsychology.com.au

Previous Intro and Outro music: Inspirational Acoustic - Organic Harmony by Sonican; and Andrii Poradovskyi; and levgen Poltavskyi from Pixabay.  Current music:  Music by Vlad Krotov  from Pixabay.  
Disclaimer: This content is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only.  It is not deemed as psychological treatment and does not replace the advice from your health professional or need for psychological treatment.  

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In this episode Nichi Morrin dives into the complex interplay between neurodivergence and chronic body-mind conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Chronic Fatigue, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). Nichi shares her insights from years of working closely with individuals facing these challenges, shedding light on how these conditions overlap and influence one another, particularly within neurodivergent populations.

Nichi explores how these invisible conditions can affect daily life, from joint pain and dizziness to brain fog, digestive issues, and sensory sensitivities. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the importance of a holistic health story—viewing the body and mind as interconnected—to better understand, manage, and support those with these overlapping conditions.

Nichi also introduces her upcoming program, focused on autonomic nervous system awareness and regulation, and a new health story report service to help individuals communicate their unique health needs more effectively.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding Neurodivergence and Health Conditions: Neurodivergent individuals (e.g., those with ADHD or Autism) often experience heightened sensory sensitivities and symptoms overlapping with conditions like EDS and POTS. 
2. Complex Impact of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): EDS leads to a range of symptoms, from joint pain and dislocations to chronic fatigue and psychological impacts like anxiety.
3. The Challenge of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): POTS affects the autonomic nervous system, causing symptoms like dizziness, heart palpitations, and fainting when standing. 
4. Chronic Fatigue and Energy Management: Unlike ordinary tiredness, chronic fatigue impacts the body at a core level, often exacerbated by nervous system dysregulation. 
5. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS): With MCAS, the immune system’s alarm system is overactive, leading to symptoms like hives, respiratory issues, and digestive discomfort. 
6. The Role of the Autonomic Nervous System: A hyperadrenergic state, where the body is “on high alert,” contributes to symptom severity. 
7. Holistic Health Story: Nichi’s new health story report service aims to improve healthcare communication and understanding for those with complex conditions.

• Register Interest for the Upcoming Program: https://nichole-morrin.mykajabi.com/signup
• Health Story Report Service: https://www.rewiredpsychology.com.au/

Thank you for listening to A Bigger Life Podcast.  If you enjoy this episode please SUBSCRIBE to our show to stay informed. You are also keenly invited to give us a rating as well. 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nichimorrin/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nichimorrin/
To purchase Nichi's book Girl, Get out of the Freaking Car!  - Please contact us via social media                                                                                                        
Psychology services - www.rewiredpsychology.com.au

Previous Intro and Outro music: Inspirational Acoustic - Organic Harmony by Sonican; and Andrii Poradovskyi; and levgen Poltavskyi from Pixabay.  Current music:  Music by Vlad Krotov  from Pixabay.  
Disclaimer: This content is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only.  It is not deemed as psychological treatment and does not replace the advice from your health professional or need for psychological treatment.  

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In this episode of The Sustainable Success Series, Nichi explore’s the often invisible struggle of perimenopause.  Despite its prevalence, perimenopause remains a taboo topic, leaving many women feeling isolated and misunderstood as they live with symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, hypersensitivity, sleep disturbances, and even worsened ADHD. We discuss how fluctuating hormones impact mental and physical health, why these changes often go unnoticed, and the importance of raising awareness so we can provide better support, promote open conversations, and empower women to seek the care they deserve during this significant life transition.
Key Takeaways:
1. Understanding Perimenopause:

• Perimenopause is the transition period before menopause characterised by fluctuating hormone levels.
• Hormonal changes can lead to physical, emotional, and mental health challenges.

2. The Invisibility of Perimenopause:

• Despite affecting nearly half the population, perimenopause remains an under-discussed topic, leading to a lack of awareness and support. 
• Stigma around women's health issues and aging contributes to this silence, leaving many women feeling isolated and misunderstood.

3. Mental Health Impact:

• Perimenopause can trigger or worsen symptoms of anxiety, depression, hypersensitivity, PTSD, and substance abuse.
• Symptoms can disrupt everyday life, affect work performance, and strain relationships.

4. ADHD and Perimenopause:   

• Women with ADHD may notice a worsening of symptoms during perimenopause due to hormonal shifts.
• Decreasing estrogen levels affect neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, intensifying ADHD symptoms such as forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, and mood swings.

5. Challenges in the Healthcare System:

• Many healthcare providers may not consider hormones when treating mental health symptoms, leading to mismanagement and inappropriate treatment.
• There is a need for greater awareness and education on the connection between hormonal health and mental wellbeing.

6. Comprehensive Care and Support:

• Effective management of perimenopausal symptoms requires an integrated approach that addresses physical, mental, and hormonal health.
• Women could benefit from lifestyle changes, hormone replacement therapy, therapy and support groups, and medication when needed.

Research article: Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry. (2024). The impact of perimenopause on women’s mental health. Retrieved from https://journals.sagepub.com

Thank you for listening to A Bigger Life Podcast.  If you enjoy this episode please SUBSCRIBE to our show to stay informed. You are also keenly invited to give us a rating as well. 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nichimorrin/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nichimorrin/
To purchase Nichi's book Girl, Get out of the Freaking Car!  - Please contact us via social media                                                                                                        
Psychology services - www.rewiredpsychology.com.au

Previous Intro and Outro music: Inspirational Acoustic - Organic Harmony by Sonican; and Andrii Poradovskyi; and levgen Poltavskyi from Pixabay.  Current music:  Music by Vlad Krotov  from Pixabay.  
Disclaimer: This content is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only.  It is not deemed as psychological treatment and does not replace the advice from your health professional or need for psychological treatment.  

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In this special episode of The Sustainable Success Series, Nichi Morrin introduces her new book "Girl, Get Out of the Freaking Car!: A Nine-Step Roadmap to Simple Self-Worth and Possibility" and the powerful Million Seen Movement. Nichi dives into the metaphor behind her book, sharing her personal journey of overcoming invisible conditions, fear, and self-doubt to live a life of purpose and success. She also shares how the Million Seen Movement aims to reach one million people living with invisible conditions feel seen, heard, and supported. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about moving from invisible to invincible and living your best life.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Metaphor Behind the Book:
   • "Girl, Get Out of the Freaking Car!" refers to stepping out of your comfort zone and into the life, where dreams and opportunities await, but fear, self-doubt, and invisible barriers often hold us back.
2. The Nine-Step Roadmap:
   • Nichi's book provides a roadmap to self-worth and possibility, addressing challenges like trauma, stress, perfectionism, and anxiety, and includes personal reflections, journal prompts, and experiential strategies to help readers overcome these barriers.
3. Personal Reflection from the Book:
   • Nichi reads from the introduction of her book, highlighting the transformation possible when we conquer self-doubt, past trauma, and anxiety to rebuild self-worth and open the door to new opportunities.
4. Introducing the Million Seen Mission:
   • The Million Seen Mission is a global movement to help one million people with invisible conditions feel seen, heard, and understood. It’s about raising awareness and creating lasting, transformative change.
5. The Impact of Invisible Conditions:
   • Nichi shares her personal experience as both someone living with invisible conditions and a mother of children with similar challenges. She emphasises the need for a compassionate, healing community for those who have felt overlooked and undervalued.

Links Mentioned:

• Purchase Nichi’s Book: https://thesuccessfulzebrastore.myshopify.com/
• Million Seen Movement on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nichimorrin/ 
• Million Seen Movement on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themillionseenmovement/
• Email Us: [email protected]

Thank you for listening to A Bigger Life Podcast.  If you enjoy this episode please SUBSCRIBE to our show to stay informed. You are also keenly invited to give us a rating as well. 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nichimorrin/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nichimorrin/
To purchase Nichi's book Girl, Get out of the Freaking Car!  - Please contact us via social media                                                                                                        
Psychology services - www.rewiredpsychology.com.au

Previous Intro and Outro music: Inspirational Acoustic - Organic Harmony by Sonican; and Andrii Poradovskyi; and levgen Poltavskyi from Pixabay.  Current music:  Music by Vlad Krotov  from Pixabay.  
Disclaimer: This content is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only.  It is not deemed as psychological treatment and does not replace the advice from your health professional or need for psychological treatment.  

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In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Amee Shah, a trailblazer navigating the intersection of her professional life and her personal journey with epilepsy. From being diagnosed at the age of eight to facing the challenges of family planning while managing medication side effects, Dr. Shah’s story is one of resilience, advocacy, and the power of sharing one’s truth. She discusses the stigma surrounding invisible illnesses, the importance of self-advocacy, and how embracing vulnerability can transform lives. Dr. Shah’s candid conversation highlights the critical need for better education and support systems in women's health, especially for those living with chronic and invisible conditions.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Impact of Invisible Illness on Life and Career:
   • Dr. Shah shares her experience of being diagnosed with epilepsy at a young age and how it influenced her personal and professional decisions, including her choice of career to better manage her health needs.
2. Navigating Family Planning with Epilepsy:
   • The complexities of managing epilepsy during family planning, including medication side effects and the emotional and physical toll it took on her life.
3. The Importance of Sharing Your Story:
   • Dr. Shah emphasises the power of speaking up about one’s struggles with invisible illnesses. She highlights that breaking the silence not only helps individuals find support but also creates space for others to share their own experiences.
4. Advocacy and Self-Advocacy:
   • She stresses the importance of self-advocacy in managing health, finding supportive healthcare providers, and creating personal boundaries to protect one’s wellbeing.
5. Reframing Expectations and Setting Boundaries:
   • Dr. Shah discusses her journey of learning to listen to her body, setting realistic expectations, and embracing a new way of living that prioritises her health and happiness.
6. Empowerment Through Vulnerability:
   • Dr. Shah’s commitment to breaking down barriers and encouraging others to be open about their conditions shows that vulnerability can be a source of strength and empowerment.

Connect with Dr. Amy Shah:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behindthebindis/

If you found this episode valuable, please share it with someone who might benefit from hearing Dr. Shah’s inspiring story. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more stories that break the silence around invisible conditions.

Thank you for listening to A Bigger Life Podcast.  If you enjoy this episode please SUBSCRIBE to our show to stay informed. You are also keenly invited to give us a rating as well. 

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nichimorrin/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nichimorrin/
To purchase Nichi's book Girl, Get out of the Freaking Car!  - Please contact us via social media                                                                                                        
Psychology services - www.rewiredpsychology.com.au

Previous Intro and Outro music: Inspirational Acoustic - Organic Harmony by Sonican; and Andrii Poradovskyi; and levgen Poltavskyi from Pixabay.  Current music:  Music by Vlad Krotov  from Pixabay.  
Disclaimer: This content is general in nature and intended for educational purposes only.  It is not deemed as psychological treatment and does not replace the advice from your health professional or need for psychological treatment.