Reclaiming Bossy

Welcome back to the Empower Sounds Podcast! In today’s solo episode, I’m diving into part two of my language-learning journey—from intermediate Spanish to fluency. Last week, I shared how I reached the intermediate level (B1) using a mix of Netflix, music, and self-study. If you haven’t listened to that episode yet, I recommend starting there!

In this episode, I explore my journey from B1 to C1, a level of advanced fluency, after moving to Madrid for a year. I discuss the challenges and growth that came with immersing myself in Spanish, from navigating daily life with a DIY level of Spanish to passing the challenging DELE C1 exam. I share the strategies that worked for me, the cultural experiences that helped me learn beyond the classroom, and the importance of consistency and accountability.

Key Topics Covered:

•📚 Immersive Learning: How moving to Spain and setting an intention to improve transformed my language skills.

•🧩 From DIY to Structured Learning: The importance of combining self-study with formal courses and daily Spanish interactions.

•🌍 Building a Life in Spanish: From navigating a Spanish gym to volunteering, I share how I incorporated Spanish into every aspect of my life.

•📖 Overcoming the Intermediate Plateau: Tips for pushing past the common “intermediate plateau” to reach advanced fluency.

•🎓 Preparing for the C1 DELE Exam: My approach to the exam, including tips on specific vocabulary, grammar, and the value of practice exams.

Whether you’re learning a new language or just curious about the journey to fluency, this episode offers practical tips and motivation to keep going, even when it gets tough. Listen in for my story and actionable advice on taking your language skills to the next level.

Resources Mentioned:

•Spanish with Vicente: https://www.youtube.com/@SpanishwithVicente

•ted talks in Spanish ( look this up on YouTube or Spotify or any other streaming platform and it'll come up)

•Italki for language partners : https://www.italki.com/

Connect with Me:

Need a Spanish-speaking buddy? Or maybe you’re learning another language? Hit me up on the podcast Instagram—let’s support each other on this journey!

Follow Empower Sounds

•Instagram: @EmpowerSounds

•TikTok: @EmpowerSoundsPodcast

•Linktree: linktr.ee/empowersounds

For inquiries, email us at [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Empower Sounds, I’m diving into my journey of learning Spanish from scratch to fluency, mostly through self-study! I share how I went from knowing no Spanish to confidently speaking, understanding, and even moving to Spain to truly immerse myself in the language and culture. 🌍💃

Language learning is so much more than just words; it’s about unlocking a world of new people, music, and experiences. I’ll guide you through the methods that worked for me—from music and Netflix to practical strategies like setting goals, using the 80/20 rule, and making Spanish a part of daily life. Plus, I’ll tackle the myth that you can only learn languages as a kid. Spoiler: it’s never too late!

Whether you’re just starting out or already learning, join me for insights, tips, and a roadmap you can adapt to your own language goals. And hey, if you need a language buddy, reach out to me on Instagram. Let’s make this language-learning journey fun and empowering...

Resources mentioned:

list of the 1000 most common words and other resources that are really good by Nathaniel Drew if you sign up to the free newsletter: https://www.nathanieldrew.com/language-learning-resources

my favourite apps

• language transfer
• quizlet
• memrise
• spanish dict amazing for translating

good grammar books:

• ELE actual
• Paul nobles spanish book ( the audiobook form is much better)

Other things you can do

• create a playlist of songs and then for writing practice you can translate them
• watching shows with subtitles of your target languages
• change the language on your phone

Connect with Me:

Need a Spanish-speaking buddy? Or maybe you’re learning another language? Hit me up on the podcast Instagram—let’s support each other on this journey!

Follow Empower Sounds

•Instagram: @EmpowerSounds

•TikTok: @EmpowerSoundsPodcast

•Linktree: linktr.ee/empowersounds

For inquiries, email us at [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In todays episode, we are joined by Gabby Edlin, founder and former CEO of Bloody Good Period, a charity that has transformed how we address period poverty and menstrual equity for asylum seekers, refugees, and those without access in the UK. Gabby shares her journey, beginning with her creative roots and evolving into a powerful movement that has dismantled the stigma around menstruation and championed equality. Together, we explore the foundation and philosophy of Bloody Good Period and how Gabby’s mission has impacted communities across the UK.

Gabby highlights the importance of creating a sense of belonging and visibility for menstruators from all walks of life. We discuss the role of creativity in brand-building and how her unique approach has brought joy, humor, and advocacy to a traditionally taboo topic. Gabby also opens up about the challenges of being a female founder, facing stigma, and staying true to her values while leading a purpose-driven organisation. Now working as a brand nurturer, she continues to uplift purpose-led brands, helping founders bring authenticity, confidence, and connection to their work.

Key Takeaways

• Using Creativity to Break Taboos: Gabby’s creativity led to a brand that challenges conventional thinking around periods, creating both joy and essential change.
• The Power of Belonging: For many, Bloody Good Period is more than a charity—it’s a place where people feel seen and supported, especially those marginalised by society.
• Setting Boundaries as a Founder: Gabby reflects on the importance of avoiding burnout by setting clear boundaries and practicing self-care.
• .Creating Values-Driven Brands: Gabby explains the impact of brand identity and staying connected to core values, showing how authenticity fuels brand loyalty.
• Transition to Brand Nurturer: Now working one-on-one with founders, Gabby brings joy, confidence, and clarity to mission-driven brands looking to make an impact.

Resources Mentioned

• Bloody Good Period: https://www.bloodygoodperiod.com/
• Stay in the Room Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2feHTNMiKOZAdKMhWP7kpM
• Gabby´s website and brand nurturing services: https://www.gabbyedlin.com/

Follow Empower Sounds

•Instagram: @EmpowerSounds

•TikTok: @EmpowerSoundsPodcast

•Linktree: linktr.ee/empowersounds

For inquiries, email us at [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I sit down with Dawn, CEO of Reducing the Risk, a UK-based charity that provides crucial support to domestic abuse victims. With one in four women in the UK experiencing domestic abuse and two women dying weekly due to it, this conversation sheds light on a pervasive yet often hidden issue. Dawn shares the work her organization does with just 12 staff and over 5,000 volunteers, offering high-risk support, court representation, and community education.

We delve into the different forms of abuse, including emotional, economic, and coercive control, and explore how abuse impacts individuals and children over their lifetimes. Dawn discusses the importance of recognizing early warning signs, the role of cultural differences, and how technology can both empower victims and be used as a tool for control. She also emphasizes the need for non-judgmental support and highlights the responsibility of employers to implement domestic abuse policies.Dawn’s dedication to supporting victims and her vision for a safer future show that recovery is possible with the right support and understanding.

Key Takeaways:

1.Understanding Different Forms of Abuse: From financial to emotional, knowing the signs can make a life-saving difference.

2.Early Warning Signs: Recognize the ‘pink flags’ in relationships and understand the subtle shifts that might indicate control or manipulation.

3.The Role of Community Support: Learn how to be a non-judgmental listener and an effective ally for someone experiencing abuse.

4.Technology’s Double-Edged Sword: How technology can empower victims but also be used as a tool for control.

5.Supporting Children & Communities: Dawn shares her goal of raising awareness and support for children affected by abuse and uplifting entire communities through education.

Resources Mentioned:

•Learn more about Reducing the Risk and find support resources: https://reducingtherisk.org.uk/

•National Domestic Abuse resources. https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/getting-help-for-domestic-violence/

Follow Empower Sounds

•Instagram: @EmpowerSounds

•TikTok: @EmpowerSoundsPodcast

•Linktree: linktr.ee/empowersounds

For inquiries, email us at [email protected].

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In this episode, I dive deep into the transformative power of therapy and share my personal journey of healing through one year of therapy. I open up about my mental health struggles at university and the stigma I felt around seeking help. Therapy changed my life in ways I didn’t expect, and today, I’m sharing the 10 most important lessons I learned from my experience.

I hope that by sharing these lessons, you’ll feel empowered to seek support, understand that your healing journey is unique, and recognize that you are worthy of all the help and healing available to you. Whether it’s through therapy or other outlets, you deserve to feel whole and supported.

Key Takeaways:

• Everyone Deserves Help: We often think our problems aren’t “big enough” to deserve therapy, but everyone is worthy of support, no matter how small or big the struggle.
• Healing Is Not Linear: There will be ups and downs, but the journey is about progress, not perfection. Every setback is a chance to grow.
• Self-Processing Emotions: Instead of running to others, learn to process your feelings first. Therapy taught me the importance of sitting with my emotions before sharing them.
• Your Story Is Not Defined by Negative Experiences: Bad things happen, but they don’t define your worth. It’s important to stop internalizing external events as reflections of who you are.
• Nervous System Regulation: Mental health is connected to how you treat your body. Learn how taking care of your nervous system can drastically improve your mental well-being.

Actionable Steps:

1.Seek Support: Whether it’s therapy or another form of self-care, know that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

2.Practice Self-Processing: Use journaling or voice notes to process your feelings before seeking external validation.

3.Focus on Nervous System Health: Implement small habits like somatic shaking, EFT tapping, or breathing exercises to help regulate your nervous system.

4.Curate Your Environment: Surround yourself with people, habits, and spaces that make you feel safe and supported.

Resources Mentioned:

https://mayaraichoora.com/

https://markmanson.net/books/everything-is-fucked

south asian advocacy on instagram @my.jyotiii

better help https://www.betterhelp.com/

free ai therapy tool: https://calmi.so/

mental health with the NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/

Follow Empower Sounds

•Instagram: @EmpowerSounds

•TikTok: @EmpowerSoundsPodcast

•Linktree: linktr.ee/empowersounds

For inquiries, email us at [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Empowering Young Women with Role Models – Featuring Vicky Booth, CEO of Inspiring Girls International

In this episode, we sit down with Vicky Booth, CEO of Inspiring Girls International, to explore the transformative impact of female role models on young girls across the globe. Vicky shares how Inspiring Girls has grown into a global initiative, spanning 39 countries, and the pivotal role it plays in widening girls’ horizons by connecting them with incredible women from all walks of life.

We delve into the challenges young women face, from battling gender stereotypes to navigating career ambitions. Vicky also discusses the power of storytelling and how the #ThisLittleGirlIsMe campaign encourages women to reflect on their childhood selves and inspire future generations.

Vicky’s journey and her leadership at Inspiring Girls is a powerful reminder of how representation matters, and how small actions can lead to global change.

Key Takeaways:

1.The Importance of Role Models: Having visible female role models can significantly impact a young girl’s aspirations and her belief in what’s possible.

2.Smashing Gender Stereotypes: Girls still face limiting stereotypes, but early exposure to diverse career paths can help shift these perspectives.

3.Scaling a Global Initiative: Inspiring Girls has grown to 39 countries by tapping into local volunteers and creating accessible pathways for women to get involved.

4.The Power of Storytelling: Sharing personal stories helps girls relate to women in leadership roles, showing that success comes in many forms.

5.Participating in #ThisLittleGirlIsMe: This campaign invites women to share photos and stories of their younger selves, reminding us to speak kindly to our inner child.

Resources Mentioned:

•Learn more about the This Little Girl Is Me campaign and how to participate: https://inspiring-girls.com/thislittlegirlisme

•Support Inspiring Girls through the Big Give campaign by donating £11 on October 11th: https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/help-raise-girls-aspirations-around-the-world/

•Volunteer with Inspiring Girls: https://inspiring-girls.com/who-we-are

Follow Empower Sounds

•Instagram: @EmpowerSounds

•TikTok: @EmpowerSoundsPodcast

•Linktree: linktr.ee/empowersounds

For inquiries, email us at [email protected].

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Empower Sounds, I sit down with Celia Pool, co-founder of the revolutionary sustainable period product company, DAME. Celia shares the inspiring journey behind DAME’s creation, the challenges she faced, and why creating sustainable menstrual products is essential for both personal health and environmental impact. We dive deep into the world of reusable period products, like DAME’s game-changing tampon applicator, and how they can transform lives while helping combat waste.

We also discuss the cultural stigma surrounding periods, the role of social media in breaking down taboos, and the importance of having open and inclusive conversations around menstruation and women’s health. If you’re passionate about sustainability, women’s health, or just curious about how small changes can make a big difference, this episode is for you!

Key Takeaways:

•The powerful story behind DAME and how it’s reducing period waste through sustainable products.

•Why reusable period products, like DAME’s tampon applicator, are game-changers for menstrual health.

•How breaking the stigma around periods can empower women and improve conversations around health.

•My conversation with Celia on navigating imposter syndrome and running a purpose-driven business.

•How education, awareness, and accessibility are key to encouraging the shift towards sustainable period products.

Resources Mentioned:

•DAME’s Website: wearedame.co

•Bloody Good Period

Connect with Celia Pool:

•LinkedIn: Celia Pool

•Instagram: @celia.inc

Follow Empower Sounds:

•Instagram: @EmpowerSounds

•TikTok: @EmpowerSoundsPodcast

•Linktree: linktr.ee/empowersounds

For inquiries, email us at [email protected].

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Welcome to Episode 21 of the Empower Sounds podcast! 🎙️ This episode is a little different—I had a spontaneous moment of inspiration and wanted to share my thoughts with you all. Grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s talk about why it’s okay to be bad at your hobbies and how embracing imperfection can bring so much joy.

Key Takeaways:

❤️ The importance of hobbies for pure enjoyment, not productivity: I rediscovered my love for painting recently and realized that it’s not about being good at something but enjoying the process. We often forget that not everything has to be productive or serve a higher purpose.

❤️ The struggle with perfectionism: So many of us stop doing things because we aren’t great at them. I shared how my paintings didn’t match the Pinterest images I was referencing, and it led to frustration. But here’s the thing—it’s okay! It’s about the act of creating, not the final product.

❤️ Link to neurodivergence: As someone diagnosed with dyspraxia, I’ve always had challenges with sports, feeling like I didn’t fit in. I referenced my conversation with Nidhi from Episode 20, where we discussed how neurodivergent individuals often struggle with activities, but pushing through that discomfort can lead to real joy and growth.

❤️ The cultural pressure for success: We live in a world that celebrates expertise, but not everything in life needs to be mastered. I encourage you to let go of the need to be great at something just to enjoy it.

❤️ Letting go of the fear of failure: I spoke about gym anxiety and how I hesitated to join run clubs, thinking I’d be the worst one there. But I did it anyway and had an amazing time. Sometimes we just need to step out of our comfort zones and allow ourselves to be beginners.

Actionable Steps:

• Make a list of hobbies you’ve always wanted to try: Whether it’s painting, dancing, or playing an instrument, jot down things you’ve always been curious about but haven’t pursued because of fear or lack of time.
• Set small goals: You don’t need to commit hours every day. Start with 15 minutes once a week. Just a little time to enjoy the process without the pressure to get better.
• Invite a friend: If trying something new on your own feels intimidating, invite a friend to join you. Doing it together can make it more fun and less anxiety-inducing.
• Let go of judgment: When you start a new hobby, don’t judge yourself if you’re not great at it. Remember, the point is to have fun, not to be perfect.
• Celebrate the process, not the product: Remind yourself that joy comes from the act of doing, not from the final result. Embrace being bad at something—it’s liberating!

Let’s take this challenge together—share your hobby list with me at @empowersoundspodcast Instagram. I’d love to hear what new things you’re trying, and remember, it’s about having fun, not being perfect!

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @empowersounds and on TikTok at @empowersoundspodcast for more updates, behind-the-scenes content, and empowering stories. To learn more, visit: linktr.ee/empowersounds.

Inquiries: [email protected]

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Empower Sounds, I sit down with Nidhi Sethi, founder of behind the smiles, who shares her journey of being diagnosed with autism at the age of 17. Nidhi talks about navigating life with a late diagnosis, the challenges of living with sensory processing disorder, and how she used her platform to raise awareness and break down the stigma surrounding autism—especially how it manifests differently in females.

Key Takeaways:

🧠 Early Signs and Diagnosis: Nidhi opens up about her early struggles with sensory processing disorder and how a TikTok video led her to explore her potential autism diagnosis at 17.

🌍 Shattering Stereotypes: Discussing the difference in how autism presents in females versus males, Nidhi emphasizes that most societal perceptions of autism are male-oriented and how she had to navigate that societal bias both before and after her diagnosis.

💡 Masking and Mental Health: Nidhi shares her experience with masking—hiding behind a smile to fit in—and how it can lead to emotional burnout. She offers advice on how to manage masking and avoid emotional exhaustion through setting boundaries and practicing self-care.

🔄 Gender Differences in Autism: We dive into the scientific research that initially focused on males, leaving many women underdiagnosed. Nidhi discusses how this affects the way girls experience and express autism differently from boys.

🌸 Breaking the Mask: Nidhi encourages others to embrace authenticity and break the mask of “always being okay.” She shares practical tips on saying “no,” managing boundaries, and how breaking societal expectations helped her stay true to herself.

💪 University and Autism: Navigating university life as an autistic woman, Nidhi discusses challenges such as time blindness, sensory issues, and building a new support system, all while managing mental health struggles.

🎯 Finding Strength through Sport: Nidhi’s journey to running the London Marathon highlights her resilience and how physical activity has become a powerful outlet for managing anxiety.

What You’ll Learn:

•How to seek support for autism and neurodivergence

•Strategies for managing emotional burnout and setting boundaries

•Understanding the gender differences in autism diagnosis and presentation

•The importance of finding an outlet and building a support network

Tune in for an empowering conversation about breaking barriers, embracing neurodiversity, and living life authentically.

💬 Join the Conversation: Let us know your thoughts about this episode by commenting on our Instagram @empowersoundspodcast or DM us with what you want to hear next!

connect with Nidhi :

instagram : nidhisethix

running account: @nidsruns

https://www.behindthesmiles.co.uk/

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In this episode, I dive into the journey of not caring what people think and how to stop letting others’ opinions hold you back from living authentically. Inspired by The Courage to Be Disliked, I share personal stories of self-expression, breaking free from external validation, and finding the courage to be true to yourself—no matter what others might think.

I talk about why it’s natural to care about others’ approval and how it’s rooted in our survival instincts, but also why it’s crucial to overcome this fear to live a fulfilling life. I’ll walk you through steps to forgive yourself for prioritizing others’ expectations in the past, and how to start trusting your intuition rather than constantly seeking external validation.

Key Takeaways:

• Why We Care About Approval: I explore the deep-seated evolutionary reasons for caring about what others think and how to recognize this as a normal part of being human.
• Forgiveness & Reclaiming Your Voice: Learn how to forgive yourself for the times when you lived to please others, and begin the journey of reclaiming your true self.
• Stop Seeking External Validation: Discover how constantly asking for opinions weakens self-trust, and why it’s time to start making decisions based on your intuition.
• The Separation of Tasks: Drawing from Adler’s theory, I explain why others’ opinions are not your task and how to stay focused on living in alignment with your values.
• Building Confidence: Start with small acts of courage, like posting something without overthinking or making decisions independently, and watch your confidence grow over time.

Actionable Steps:

1.Identify Your Triggers: Write down specific situations where you feel overly concerned with what others think, and recognize which parts of those concerns are not your responsibility.

2.Take Small, Courageous Steps: Begin with one small act of self-expression that makes you uncomfortable—whether it’s sharing a post without seeking validation or standing up for yourself in a conversation.

3.Curate a Supportive Environment: Unfollow or mute people and accounts that make you feel small, and surround yourself with those who inspire and empower you.

4.Trust Yourself: Start making small decisions—like what to wear or post—without consulting others, and grow your ability to trust your own voice.

Journal Prompts (more on the Instagram page):

•What areas of your life are most affected by worrying about what others think?

•What decisions could you start making without seeking validation from others?

•How can you create a supportive environment that empowers your self-expression?

Listen to related episodes:

20 Things I Learned at 20

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @empowersounds and on TikTok at @empowersoundspodcast for more updates, behind-the-scenes content, and empowering stories. To learn more, visit: linktr.ee/empowersounds.

Inquiries: [email protected]

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.