A Path to Self-Healing with Chris Leather

Can a scary story actually help a child become braver?

 

I'm joined by Dr. Randolph B Schiffer, a retired neurologist and psychiatrist who made the fascinating shift into writing children's fiction. We talk about his book, Bedtime Stories That Will Terrify Children, and look at how stepping into safe, controlled fear can actually equip young minds for the real world.

 

We cover:

 

• His transition from a medical career in neurology and psychiatry into storytelling.

 

• Why modern culture often struggles to teach kids genuine resilience and personal responsibility.

 

• How measured, thoughtful fear in stories helps children learn how to process difficult emotions and be brave.

 

• The deeper purpose behind sharing stories and building meaningful connections with the next generation.

 

Find out more about his work at https://randolphbschiffer.com/

Why do relationships in your life keep breaking down, whether it's friendships, family, or romantic connections? This conversation might help explain why, and what you can actually do about it.

 

In this episode, I'm sitting down with psychotherapist Jax Beatty to get into the messy reality of human relationships and mental health. We skip the fluff and walk through the exact stages of where things get stuck:

 

The Post-Honeymoon Reality: What happens when the biological high wears off and relationships start to feel flat.

 

Attachment Styles: How our wiring creates that exhausting push-and-pull dynamic.

 

Overthinking & ADHD: Why a dry text or a slight shift in mood can trigger an emotional emergency.

 

Conflict & Repair: How to handle arguments in a healthy way without tearing each other apart.

 

Outside Noise: Managing family pressures, friends, and external opinions that bleed into your bond.

 

Keeping Desire Alive: What it actually takes to stop turning into housemates and keep the spark going.

 

Want to hear more from Jax on healing from heartbreak? Tune into the full episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5RpCR8wJzhEqfuFx3VXBQK?si=6c88a3f3cb4c4ce0

 

To connect with Jax, visit elephantroomtherapy.co.uk

 

If you're tired of spinning your wheels in the same old cycles and want some honest, practical relationship advice, this one's for you. Hit follow and let us know your biggest takeaway.

Are you living your own life, or just following a script written in your childhood?

 

What if you could consciously choose your attitude, regardless of your past conditioning?

 

Most of us aren’t living our own lives, we’re living our conditioning. Before the age of seven, your foundational habits, fears, and internal scripts were given to us from a young age. In this episode, we’re clearing out the noise to see who you actually are beneath it all.

 

Join me and Marvin L. Wilkerson as we move beyond theory to offer practical tools you can use day-to-day. We discuss how astrology acts as a map for your healing, combined with self-hypnosis and NLP to identify and change the subconscious limitations installed in early childhood.

 

Connect with Marvin and check out the tools he offers:

 

Marvin Wilkerson: A master astrologer, certified hypnotherapist, and NLP expert. Marvin blends ancient wisdom with modern psychological practices to help people unlock their potential and heal from deep-seated trauma.

 

https://www.astromarv.com/about-marvin

 

Star Charts: Astrologers use precise tools to map these internal patterns.

 

https://alabe.com/solarfireV9.html

 

You can find Marvin’s book in the usual places online; I’ve included a direct link to the audiobook version at the bottom of this episode.

 

Thanks for listening to his work. If this resonated with your own path, hit follow to stay connected on future episodes.

Are you constantly walking on eggshells, feeling utterly drained, and trapped in a relationship loop that leaves you questioning your own reality?

 

Escaping psychological manipulation requires pulling back the curtain on the confusing tactics used by toxic personalities and finding the strength to walk away. Author, podcaster, and survivor Saige Whitney joins the podcast to share the raw reality of navigating narcissistic abuse, describing what it truly feels like to live in the dark behind a partner's flawless public persona, and how to finally turn the lights on.

 

We move past superficial buzzwords to look at the real mechanics of recovery, detailing how to recognize if you are being treated as a human or just a stepping stone, how to safely prioritize your well-being, and how to harness "sacred anger" as a profound tool for healing.

 

Key takeaways:

▪️ Spotting the difference between genuine human connection and being used as a tactical stepping stone.

▪️ The hidden reality of what happens behind closed doors versus a manipulator's public persona.

▪️ Reclaiming your power by channeling "sacred anger" into proactive recovery rather than resentment.

▪️ Radical boundary setting and why your personal safety must always come before a toxic person's feelings.

 

Connect with Saige Whitney:

Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1iLZCU9yqKpmTdniVZOEf5?si=6efcb4885aac4e16

Website: https://alightsoutnarcissisticpodcast.riverside.com/

Book (Regardless): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Regardless-Saige-Whitney/dp/1669855805

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SaigeWhitney-ki5ve

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_lights_out_narcissistic_pod/

 

If this conversation helped you understand yourself a little better, please take 5 seconds to follow and leave a rating. It takes a moment, but it physically helps the algorithms surface these self-healing tools to the people who need them most.

What do you do when the version of yourself you have known for years suddenly feels like a complete stranger?

 

A major narrative disruption, whether it is a painful breakup, a divorce, or a massive lifestyle shift—forces an intense identity crisis, leaving you to grieve not just the loss of a partner, but the loss of who you were alongside them. In this special panel episode of APTSH, I am joined by psychotherapist Jax Beatty, clinical hypnotherapist Beckie Sorby, and life coach Sue Ashford to unpack the raw reality of losing your identity and finding your footing when your life story is completely disrupted.

 

We move past surface-level self-help to explore the deep psychological mechanics of personal reinvention, outlining practical frameworks to break the "couple" identity, ground yourself amidst emotional chaos, and step into a more authentic chapter of your life.

 

Key takeaways:

▪️ Breaking the "Couple" Identity: Discovering who you are when you are no longer part of a "we".

▪️ From Chaos to Clarity: How to stop feeling ungrounded and build a resilient new reality.

▪️ Subconscious Rediscovery: Practical, small steps to rediscover your internal spark and personal interests.

▪️ Shifting the Narrative: Moving from feeling like a victim of forced change to becoming the author of your reinvention.

 

Connect with the panel:

Jax Beatty: https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/counsellors/jax-beatty (Instagram: @psychotherapy_jax_beatty)

Beckie Sorby: https://beckiesorby.co.uk/

Sue Ashford: https://www.sueashford.com/

 

If this conversation helped you understand yourself a little better, please take 5 seconds to follow and leave a rating. It takes a moment, but it physically helps the algorithms surface these self-healing tools to the people who need them most.

Are you facing a devastating health crisis, severe burnout, or a dark season in life that leaves you feeling like you have completely run out of options?

 

Overcoming profound physical adversity requires moving past basic survival to create a mindset that actively refuses to let suffering dictate your future. Speaker, entrepreneur, and former Georgetown City Council member Ty Gipson joins me to share his extraordinary journey of living with Type 1 diabetes from age eight, navigating kidney failure, and surviving a life-changing dual kidney-pancreas transplant.

 

We look at the raw reality of severe illness and resilience, discussing how a tough-love childhood in southeast Texas forged his perspective, and unpacking his practical three-step framework to process darkness, build businesses, and find deep purpose on the other side of trauma.

 

Key takeaways:

▪️ The psychological reality of managing chronic childhood illness and preventing it from becoming an excuse.

▪️ Navigating the emotional turbulence of organ failure and the dual transplant journey.

▪️ The "No Option Mindset" and a practical framework for choosing hope over despair.

▪️ Why sharing your story and embracing vulnerability is the ultimate tool for collective healing.

 

Connect with Ty Gipson:

Website: https://ty.gipson.com

Water Boy Graphics: https://waterboygraphics.com

Podcast: No Options (Available on Spotify, YouTube, and all major platforms)

 

If this conversation helped you understand yourself a little better, please take 5 seconds to follow and leave a rating. It takes a moment, but it physically helps the algorithms surface these self-healing tools to the people who need them most.

Are you trapped in a painful loop of chasing unavailable love, repeating toxic relationship patterns, or struggling to navigate anxious and avoidant attachment styles after a devastating breakup?

 

Dealing with deep heartbreak or complex relational trauma requires moving past surface-level advice to understand the profound psychological blueprints that dictate how we love. Psychotherapist with over 30 years of mental health experience, Jax Beatty, joins the podcast to unpack the mechanics of attachment theory, childhood programming, and emotional regulation.

 

We look at the reality of adult relationship dynamics, examining how conflicting attachment styles collide, how to spot the red flags of love bombing, and the practical inner work required to heal your self-worth and build secure connections.

 

Key takeaways:

▪️ How early life experiences shape adult attachment patterns and drive relationship choices.

▪️ The psychological impact of heartbreak on your core identity and how to rebuild trust.

▪️ Recognising the mechanics of love bombing and why pace matters when choosing a partner.

▪️ The changing landscape of therapy, including the role of AI versus irreplaceable human connection.

 

Connect with Jax Beatty:

Website: https://www.jaxbeattypsychotherapy.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/psychotherapy_jax_beatty/

Email: [email protected]

 

If this conversation helped you understand yourself a little better, please take 5 seconds to follow and leave a rating. It takes a moment, but it physically helps the algorithms surface these self-healing tools to the people who need them most.

Are you holding yourself back from your true potential because of silent self-doubt, anxiety, or a lack of clear direction?

 

Achieving an elite mindset requires moving past superficial motivation to master the actual physical and psychological mechanics of human performance. Peak performance mindset coach, global keynote speaker, and former professional footballer Matt Young joins the podcast to break down how to build genuine emotional resilience, master discipline, and unlock long-term growth.

 

We strip away the generic self-help clichés to look at the raw reality of personal transformation, examining how Matt rebuilt his own identity after hitting rock bottom, and outlining practical frameworks to shift your body, focus, and habits for ultimate success.

 

Key takeaways:

▪️ The three pillars of a peak mindset and how movement and breathing dictate confidence.

▪️ Navigating the severe identity crisis of transitioning out of professional sport.

▪️ Why lived experience and leading from the front matter more than textbook theory.

▪️ Actionable tools to manage stress, overcome limiting beliefs, and cultivate deep empathy.

 

Connect with Matt Young:

Website: https://www.mattyounglc.com/executivecoachingspeaking

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mattyounglc

 

If this conversation helped you understand yourself a little better, please take 5 seconds to follow and leave a rating. It takes a moment, but it physically helps the algorithms surface these self-healing tools to the people who need them most.

In this inspiring and high-impact episode, I sit down with Matt Young, peak performance mindset coach, global keynote speaker, former professional footballer, and ultra-endurance athlete, to explore what it really takes to unlock human potential, build emotional resilience, and develop an elite mindset.

From overcoming anxiety and self-doubt to mastering discipline and purpose, Matt shares powerful insights and practical tools to help you perform at your best in life, sport, and business.

(0:01 – 0:20) | Introduction

Meet Matt Young, peak performance coach, global keynote speaker, former professional footballer, and ultra-marathon runner. Matt shares a snapshot of his journey, setting the tone for a powerful conversation about mindset, resilience, and personal growth.

(0:22 – 1:54) | The Three Pillars of Peak Mindset

Matt introduces his core philosophy and explains how movement, posture, breathing, and focus directly shape emotions and confidence. He explores how the body influences the mind, why most communication is body-led, and how intentional physical habits can dramatically improve performance in sport, business, and everyday life.

(1:56 – 8:54) | Background & Purpose

Matt shares his journey into coaching and personal development, including his years of study in psychology, behaviour, and anatomy. He explains his mission to empower others, help people break through emotional barriers, and why this episode is especially valuable for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about their next step.

(8:55 – 9:52) | Where the Drive Comes From

A reflection on Matt’s upbringing and the influence of his parents. He discusses how early encouragement, strong values, and belief in possibility shaped his ambition, resilience, and long-term work ethic.

(9:53 – 12:51) | From Football to Rock Bottom

Matt opens up about life after professional sport, losing his identity, and experiencing emotional and mental struggles. He explains how discipline, consistency, and self-belief helped him rebuild his confidence and create a new sense of purpose beyond football.

(12:51 – 15:27) | Leading from the Front

Why lived experience matters more than theory. Matt explains his belief that “talk is cheap” and that true leadership comes from practising what you preach. He shares why he continually challenges himself so he can guide others with authenticity and credibility.

(15:27 – 16:25) | Empathy Through Experience

A discussion on how personal hardship, loss, and emotional pain develop deeper empathy. Matt explains how having “been there” allows him to connect more genuinely with clients and support them through anxiety, fear, and uncertainty.

(16:38 – 20:17) | Coaching Philosophy & Qualifications

Matt talks through his professional development, including NLP, hypnotherapy, life coaching, and CBT-based approaches. He explains how he blends theory with lived experience to create a holistic, results-driven coaching model that serves clients worldwide.

This episode is packed with insight for anyone interested in:

• Peak performance and elite mindset development

• Overcoming anxiety and emotional blocks

• Building resilience through adversity

• High-performance habits and discipline

• Leadership, impact, and personal growth

If you’ve ever felt stuck, uncertain, or limited by your own thinking, this conversation offers both practical strategies and powerful mindset shifts.

Learn more about Matt’s executive coaching and keynote speaking here:

https://www.mattyounglc.com/executivecoachingspeaking

Explore more mindset and performance content on his YouTube channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@mattyounglc

If you’re ready to shift your focus, lead from the front, and uncover what you’re truly capable of, this episode is your starting point.

Do you feel like you are constantly carrying an invisible weight, feeling unsafe even when everything around you is perfectly fine?

 

Trauma is rarely the loud, dramatic movie-style event we imagine; more often, it is a collection of small, quiet wounds that slowly rewrite how you trust, love, and navigate your day-to-day life. Hypnotherapist, NLP practitioner, and Mnemodynamic Therapist Beckie Sorby returns to the podcast to break down how the subconscious mind stores emotional memory, and why your body continues to react to the past in ways that do not even feel like "you".

 

We strip away the clinical jargon to look at the raw reality of nervous system dysregulation, looking at how everyday experiences like breakups, bereavement, and unstable childhood environments leave lasting biological marks that trap you in fight, flight, freeze, or fawn responses.

 

Key takeaways:

▪️ Understanding Mnemodynamic therapy and re-encoding trauma memories at a subconscious level.

▪️ The four trauma responses: Moving past fight or flight into freeze and chronic people-pleasing.

▪️ Why your body remembers everything: Decoding tight shoulders, racing hearts, and emotional shutdowns.

▪️ Practical frameworks to safely regulate your nervous system and transition from survival to genuine healing.

 

Connect with Beckie Sorby:

Website: https://beckiesorby.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckiesorbyhypnotherapy/

Directory: https://www.hypnotherapy-directory.org.uk/hypnotherapists/beckie-sorby

 

If this conversation helped you understand yourself a little better, please take 5 seconds to follow and leave a rating. It takes a moment, but it physically helps the algorithms surface these self-healing tools to the people who need them most.