In this episode of the Built by JH Fitness podcast, I sit down with Kirsty Duggan—coach, mentor, and passionate advocate for mental wellness and self-discovery. We dive into the roots of her story, exploring the pressures of the beauty industry, the distortion of self-image through social media, and how she's used both science and spirituality to forge a deeply authentic path to health—inside and out. If you've ever felt like you're chasing someone else's version of "better," this episode is your permission to pause, reflect, and rediscover you. --- Main Topics & Bullet Points: Kirsty's Background & Story Her introduction to the beauty industry and early influences Shifting from aesthetics to authentic self-worth Why she transitioned into coaching and mental health advocacy The Beauty Industry & Mental Health Unrealistic standards imposed on women Internalised perfectionism and comparison The toxic cycle of appearance-based validation Social Media & Self-Perception The curated highlight reel and its psychological toll Filters, body image, and the illusion of "normal" Disconnect between online identity and inner reality Realistic Expectations in Fitness Debunking "shred culture" and overnight transformations Creating space for individual journeys and personal goals The importance of celebrating progress beyond aesthetics Misinformation in Health & Fitness The danger of trendy advice with no context Red flags to look for when consuming health content online The difference between coaching and controlling Mental Health in Coaching Why coaches must understand emotional health Holding safe space vs. just prescribing solutions The human side of fitness: empathy, trust, and trauma-informed care Kirsty's Mental Health Journey Her personal struggles and turning points How healing made her a better coach and mentor Learning to sit with discomfort and grow from it The Power of Self-Discovery & Boundaries How saying "no" became an act of power Rediscovering identity beyond roles or appearance Setting emotional boundaries for protection and peace Breathwork & Alternative Therapies Exploring the body-mind connection through non-traditional methods How breathwork, energy healing, and self-awareness transformed her healing Bridging the gap between spiritual and scientific wellness Science vs. Soul: Bridging the Gap Why evidence-based and intuitive approaches both matter Listening to your body while respecting proven practices Merging somatic work with structured health strategies Healthcare, Lived Experience & Mental Wellness Navigating healthcare while advocating for self The limits of a medical model for emotional healing Using personal experiences to better support others Physical Activity & Mental Health Movement as medicine—not punishment Training as a tool for emotional regulation Rebuilding mindset and identity after injury Injury, Setbacks & Re-evaluation How injury shifted her perspective on goals Mental resilience in times of physical limitation Redefining success: strength isn't just physical Encouragement of Self-Discovery Letting go of perfection and embracing curiosity The courage it takes to choose your path Reclaiming ownership over your story and wellbeing --- Kirsty's story reminds us that true transformation isn't about how we look—it's about how we feel, how we show up for ourselves, and how willing we are to rewrite the script we were handed. If today's conversation resonated with you, remember: you're not broken, and you don't need fixing—you just need space to become. Be kind to yourself, question what no longer serves you, and take that next small step towards your own version of healing