As we head towards December, today’s episode leans into something many of us are feeling right now: that pull toward more — more deals, more shopping, more pressure, more to-do lists.

In this episode, I’m talking about the emotional side of Black Friday season, why clutter and chaos in our surroundings often mirror what’s happening in our minds, and how easy it is to slip into old habits when life feels heavy.

I’m also sharing some very personal updates about my dad’s health, the anger I’ve had to process, and the steps I’ve taken to protect my own wellbeing during an incredibly stressful few weeks.

I’ve created something new to support anyone who feels mentally overloaded, unfocused, stuck, or simply tired of carrying everything alone:

It’s designed to help you switch off, calm the noise, settle your emotions and finally feel that sense of mental space you’ve been craving.

If you’ve ever said:

…this episode is for you.

https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/Ease-your-mind

💫 Try Hypnosis for Free

🍭 Join the Sugar Craving Reset Waitlist

💬 Why Hypnotherapy Can Help

🎥 Watch Live Hypnotherapy Sessions on YouTube

💆‍♀️ Book a Free 30-Minute Hypnotherapy Consultation

🌀 Follow Claire Oldham West Hypnosis

00:01:00 The pressure of Black Friday + “Do we really need more stuff?”

00:01:55 Shopping, emotions and the urge to “feel different”

00:02:40 When buying feels good—but isn’t the thing you actually need

00:04:00 Introducing “Ease Your Mind” – why Claire created it

00:04:45 The three free modules and what they help you understand

00:05:30 What hypnosis really feels like

00:06:10 How the mini-course works: video + audio + hypnotic track

00:08:30 Sleep challenges, sugar cravings and the morning crash

00:10:05 Navigating rage, sadness and helplessness

00:12:00 Switching care homes, safeguarding and advocating for her dad

00:12:55 Recognising anger and choosing not to carry it

00:13:45 Why taking responsibility for emotions changes everything

00:14:40 Stress, overeating and why we reach for comfort foods

00:15:25 Using hypnosis as a tool during overwhelming moments

00:16:05 Why hypnosis is an experience, not something to “learn”

00:16:45 Claire’s four-year anniversary: no chocolate, cakes or sweets

00:17:25 “I’ll start next year…” — breaking the mental loop

00:17:55 Looking ahead to Christmas + setting a decorating goal

After a nasty fall in the garden and a looming operation with added risk due to weight, sleep apnoea and breathing issues, Stephen made a decision. With a nudge from his wife, he walked into our local Slimming World group at 25st 4lb—and everything started to shift.

In this chat we cover the real stuff: losing identity after giving up rugby, the stop–start attempts, the “still think fat” moments even as the clothes sizes drop, and the power of a room that claps for your wins (and your wobbles).

This is a first for Slimming Stories, I met Stephen at my local Slimming World Group that Wray Annabel had inherited from Sue Redfern, both amazing Slimming World Consultants.

Stephen talks about the support he’s felt and why weekly accountability beat “I’ll do it myself” plans.

If you've tried to get back on plan before, drifted, and need a simple proof that consistency + community works. If you’ve ever felt “I still look the same” while everyone else notices your progress—this one’s for you.

Timestamps:

00:01:10 The fall that changed everything: shattered shoulder & surgery risks

00:02:20 Sleep apnoea, anaesthetic concerns & his wife’s life-saving nudge

00:03:30 Walking into Slimming World for the first time

00:04:15 Starting weight: 25st 4lb — and why it didn’t scare him

00:05:10 Early mobility struggles & realising things had to change

00:06:00 Past attempts, shift work & why accountability finally clicked

00:07:15 The moment group support made the journey “stick”

00:08:30 Seeing change vs feeling change — the “still think fat” phase

00:09:40 Clothes sizes dropping: 3XL to 2XL and the mind catching up

00:10:30 All-or-nothing beginnings: no Syns, full focus

00:11:45 Learning balance: reintroducing treats without spiralling

00:12:40 Rugby days, injuries & losing a big part of his identity

00:14:00 Life after sport: stoma, mini-stroke & stepping away for good

00:15:30 Food habits during care work & long days with no meals

00:16:45 The power of routine & regular eating

00:17:30 The Slimming World spark: stickers, shinies & friendly competition

00:18:45 First gains on the scales — and bouncing back stronger

00:20:00 Breaking the old “I’ve blown it, so I’ll binge” pattern

00:21:10 New rules: sad = apple, happy = strawberries

00:22:00 Weight loss milestones month by month

00:23:15 Hitting target in 41 weeks — with holidays included

00:24:10 The freedom of staying in control & losing the fear

Wrays Slimming World Groups Mansfield:

If you are local to Mansfield and would be interested in attending one of Wrays Slimming World Classes feel free to contact Wray on the following link.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/704401220014053

💫 Try Hypnosis for Free

🍭 Join the Sugar Craving Reset Waitlist

💬 Why Hypnotherapy Can Help

🎥 Watch Live Hypnotherapy Sessions on YouTube

💆‍♀️ Book a Free 30-Minute Hypnotherapy Consultation

🌀 Follow Claire Oldham West Hypnosis

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Lisa Taylor from Ontario, Canada. Lisa reached her late 30s feeling low on energy, unhappy in her marriage, and stuck in a life that didn’t feel like her own. At 226 lbs, she decided something had to change.

Lisa joined Weight Watchers with a close friend, made herself accountable, and started running while still playing competitive softball. She went on to lose around 60 lbs and nine dress sizes, and promised herself she’d never go back over 200 lbs.

But the biggest shifts weren’t just on the scales. As the weight came off, Lisa realised she’d been living by expectations she’d absorbed growing up — keeping herself small, people-pleasing, and pushing down her own needs. She began unpacking years of emotions, finding her confidence, and building a life that actually feels aligned.

Lisa shares how she and her husband separated kindly, how she now supports other women on their journeys, and how she’s navigating menopause, body changes and midlife with far more acceptance. She’s gained a sense of peace she didn’t know she was missing.

Lisa's Instagram account 

Lisa's Facebook account

💫 Try Hypnosis for Free

🍭 Join the Sugar Craving Reset Waitlist

💬 Why Hypnotherapy Can Help

Follow lisa 

🎧 Follow Slimming Stories

🎥 Watch Live Hypnotherapy Sessions on YouTube

💆‍♀️ Book a Free 30-Minute Hypnotherapy Consultation

🌀 Follow Claire Oldham West Hypnosis

We meet Dr Ibrahim  an NHS doctor who has been open about his lifelong struggle with weight and his decision to start the Mounjaro (GLP-1) jab. In this episode, he shares what it’s really like to be both a doctor and a patient using the medication — the stigma, the questions he’s asked most often, and how he approaches safety and long-term use with honesty and care.

We talk about the realities behind the “golden dose,” the risks of unverified syringes sold online, and what patients should understand about side effects like pancreatitis and gallstones. Dr Ibrahim also explains why every weight-loss journey needs a plan for maintenance, how microdosing works in theory versus practice, and how he’s rebuilt a healthier mindset through running, patience, and consistency.

It’s a clear-headed, compassionate look at the medical and emotional sides of GLP-1 treatment — perfect for anyone considering Mounjaro or wanting to hear from a doctor who truly understands it from experience.

Podcast Timeline:

00:00:00 Welcome back — why Claire wanted a medical guest to talk about Mounjaro

00:01:00 Life update — caring for her dad & using hypnosis to cope with overwhelm

00:03:00 Mindset when motivation feels low — permission to pause and reset

00:04:00 The moment of confidence: buying size-16 jeans after a year of change

00:06:00 Introducing Dr Ibrahim — NHS doctor and GP trainee using Mounjaro himself

00:07:00 Lifelong weight struggles & the mindset behind finally trying the jab

00:09:00 The stigma and judgment professionals still face when choosing the jab

00:10:00 Top questions about Mounjaro — safety, side effects & realistic expectations

00:12:00 Why safety and mindset matter more than cost when starting GLP-1 medication

00:15:00 The “golden dose” myth — medical risks and the importance of proper guidance

00:19:00 Understanding side effects: pancreatitis, gallstones & being medically screened

00:25:00 Maintenance mindset — preparing for long-term habits beyond the jab

00:28:00 Microdosing and tapering — what’s known, what’s not, and why patience matters

00:33:00 Rebuilding a healthy relationship with food — hypnosis, habits & healing

00:39:00 Mindset shift: running for mental space, not punishment

💫 Try Hypnosis for Free

🍭 Join the Sugar Craving Reset Waitlist

💬 Why Hypnotherapy Can Help

De Clutter For Change

Join Heather if you would love a clutter free home but feel lost in the project of where to even start! The link below explains all.

 https://declutterforchange.com/letting-go-lab

Follow Dr Ibrahim on TikTok, Facebook & Instagram

https://www.tiktok.com/@gpofthenorth

https://www.instagram.com/gpofthenorth/?hl=en

🎧 Follow Slimming Stories

🎥 Watch Live Hypnotherapy Sessions on YouTube

💆‍♀️ Book a Free 30-Minute Hypnotherapy Consultation

🌀 Follow Claire Oldham West Hypnosis

In this episode, I’m joined by Claire Buckley, who opens up about her lifelong struggle with food, emotional eating, and the constant “food noise” that shaped so much of her life.

Claire talks about how she first realised her relationship with food felt different from those around her, the frustration of seeking help through traditional weight loss groups, and the deeper emotional cycle that kept her feeling stuck.

She shares honestly about panic attacks, shame, and the sense of failure that came with every new attempt — and how finding the right support, along with her experience using Mounjaro, has helped her quiet the noise and begin to rebuild trust with herself.

It’s a powerful, relatable conversation about self-awareness, compassion, and what it really means to find peace with food.

00:00 Welcome back + introducing guest Claire Buckley

💫 Try Hypnosis for Free

🍭 Join the Sugar Craving Reset Waitlist

💬 Why Hypnotherapy Can Help

🎵 TikTok – bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy

👉 claireoldhamwest.com/contact

🎵 TikTok – Claire Oldham West Hypnosis

In this episode, I’m joined by Claire Buckley, who opens up about her lifelong struggle with food, emotional eating, and the constant “food noise” that shaped so much of her life.

Claire talks about how she first realised her relationship with food felt different from those around her, the frustration of seeking help through traditional weight loss groups, and the deeper emotional cycle that kept her feeling stuck.

She shares honestly about panic attacks, shame, and the sense of failure that came with every new attempt — and how finding the right support, along with her experience using Mounjaro, has helped her quiet the noise and begin to rebuild trust with herself.

It’s a powerful, relatable conversation about self-awareness, compassion, and what it really means to find peace with food.

🕒 Timestamps

00:00:00 Welcome back + introducing guest Claire Bookley

00:01:00 Life update — hospital visits, house move & a wake-up call on health

00:03:00 How the jab helped reduce cravings during an emotional week

00:04:00 Introducing Claire’s story — trauma, fibromyalgia & chronic pain

00:05:00 Hypnosis in action — 15 minutes to pain-free after 10 years

00:06:00 Claire’s TikTok community & breaking stigma around the jab

00:07:00 Living with constant “food noise” and never feeling full

00:10:00 Anxiety, panic attacks & barriers to NHS weight support

00:12:00 Emotional eating — subconscious habits and binge cycles

00:14:00 Weight-loss groups, frustration, and the diet rebound trap

00:17:00 Finding balance — calorie tracking and gentle flexibility

00:18:00 Understanding fullness cues — the hypnosis perspective

00:21:00 Rock-bottom moment and discovering Mounjaro

00:23:00 First jab experience — fear of needles and relief

00:24:00 The next morning — quiet mind and reduced food noise

00:26:00 Eating intentionally — planning, protein & control

00:27:00 Retraining the brain — new relationship with hunger

00:28:00 Host reflection — mindset shifts and health transformation

00:29:00 Life after the jab — maintaining results and balance

00:30:00 Outro — follow Claire on TikTok & subscribe for Part 2

💫 Try Hypnosis for Free

🍭 Join the Sugar Craving Reset Waitlist

💬 Why Hypnotherapy Can Help

🎧 Follow Slimming Stories

🎥 Watch Live Hypnotherapy Sessions on YouTube

💆‍♀️ Book a Free 30-Minute Hypnotherapy Consultation

🌀 Follow Claire Oldham West Hypnosis

In this episode, I wanted to catch you up. It’s been a while since I’ve had the chance to really sit down and talk about what’s been going on — and a lot has happened.

From selling the house that everyone once told me not to buy as a single parent, to helping my mum care for my dad as his dementia has worsened, it’s been a whirlwind few months.

If you’ve ever juggled caring for family, running a business, and trying to keep your own health on track, you’ll understand how heavy that can feel. I’ve definitely had moments where I’ve questioned how to keep everything going — and still find space for myself in it all.

I’m sharing this because, just like with weight loss, life doesn’t stop throwing things at us. We don’t just carry physical weight — we carry emotional weight too. And the last few months have really reminded me of that.

I’ll also be chatting about my journey with Slimming World, why I decided to try the jab (Mounjaro), and what it’s been like to stop taking it while keeping my weight steady. I’ve learned so much about listening to my body, making mindful choices, and staying realistic about what balance actually looks like.

And there’s lots coming up for the podcast too! I’m bringing in new guests to share their real-life experiences with Slimming World, Weight Watchers, and Mounjaro. I’ll also be talking more about how hypnotherapy can help break sugar cravings and emotional eating patterns — especially for those who’ve stopped taking Mounjaro or can’t continue long-term and find old cravings creeping back.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to get back on track, or you just needed to know that someone else is figuring it out too, this episode is for you.

00:00:00 Welcome back + what’s changed since the last episode

💫 Try Hypnosis for Free

 Click here to enjoy Enchanted Forest

🍭 Join the Sugar Craving Reset Waitlist

💬 Why Hypnotherapy Can Help

🎧 Follow Slimming Stories

🎥 Watch Live Hypnotherapy Sessions on YouTube

💆‍♀️ Book a Free 30-Minute Hypnotherapy Consultation

🌀 Follow Claire Oldham West Hypnosis

In this episode, we’re diving into Laura’s story—a real, honest, and inspiring journey that all started with a walk. When Laura’s friend invited her out for a stroll, it didn’t seem like a big deal at the time. Laura hadn’t been out for a proper walk in ages, but she thought it’d be a nice way to catch up and spend time together. Little did she know that one walk would completely change the course of her life.

Laura’s friend knew she was going through a tough time and thought a bit of fresh air and a chat might help. She wasn’t wrong. The walk was tough—really tough. By the end, Laura felt absolutely drained and completely unwell. But instead of feeling defeated, she had a lightbulb moment. It was like her body was sending her a message loud and clear: something needed to change.

That moment was the push Laura needed. With her friend’s support, she started looking at her habits and how she could make some positive changes. Together, they came up with a plan. Meal prepping became a game-changer for Laura, giving her easy, healthy options right when she needed them. She also joined Slimming World, which added structure and accountability to her days.

But Laura didn’t stop there. To her own surprise, she found herself committing to early morning gym sessions—even at 5 a.m.! What started as a struggle quickly became a source of energy and pride. She wasn’t just making healthier choices with food; she was building momentum and confidence in every area of her life.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re stuck in a rut or you’re waiting for a sign to get started, this episode is for you. Laura’s story shows how one small step can lead to huge changes. It’s raw, relatable, and packed with little nuggets of motivation to help you start moving toward your goals.

If your interested in a taste of hypnosis register using the link below to be notified of the next challenge.

https://bit.ly/CHOCOLATE-HYPNOSIS

Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact 

You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com

Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.

Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en

Slimming Stories Facebook Group.

https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup

Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel

https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact 

We're just days away from Christmas, and as I was deciding which episode to publish, I came across a Reel by Cathy Heller where she shared two profound questions her friend had asked her.

These questions struck a chord with me, and I felt they would be perfect to share during this reflective season. Whether you're listening to this episode just before Christmas, right after, or even in the spring, these questions serve as a reminder that expecting different results while doing the same things can be transformed by the quality of the questions you ask yourself.

I encourage you to take a screenshot of these questions or write them down and reflect on them. They have the power to shift your perspective and create meaningful change.

I also wanted to demonstrate the power of vulnerability by sharing my own answers with you.

Question 1:

Question 2:

In this episode, I discuss why these questions are so impactful, especially before jumping into "New Year's Resolutions." Instead of rushing to set goals, take a moment to pause, tune into your gut feelings, and connect with what truly matters to you.

As we wrap up 2024 with over 80,000 podcast downloads, I am so  grateful to each and every one of my listeners for your support. You’ve made this journey incredible.

I also share details about my upcoming 3-Day Chocolate Detox Challenge starting in January, as well as the amazing results from the December challenge.

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and a transformative 2025!

If you are interested in the challenge sign up to the waiting list to be notified for the next one.

https://bit.ly/CHOCOLATE-HYPNOSIS

Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact 

You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com

Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.

Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en

Slimming Stories Facebook Group.

https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup

Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel

https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact

This is part two following on from last week’s podcast guest  Graham as he opens up about his initial skepticism when asked to participate in live hypnotherapy on Instagram for Mental Health Week. Despite his doubts, he took the plunge and, for the first time, experienced a profound sense of calm and serenity—an outcome he never thought possible as someone living with ADHD.

Graham shares how hypnotherapy has impacted his mental health in ways he didn’t expect. He reflects on how it differs from traditional talking therapy, offering insights into its unique ability to access deeper emotional healing. One of the most poignant moments of this episode is Graham’s account of finally visiting his brother’s grave, five years after his tragic passing—a step he attributes to the positive effects of hypnotherapy.

Graham’s story is a testament to resilience. As a passionate advocate for mental health, he shares how fitness continues to be a cornerstone of his well-being. From the highs of post-workout clarity to the struggles of staying consistent, he emphasizes how exercise is as vital for the mind as it is for the body.

Follow Graham on TikTok adhdas_fcuk

It's FREE! Join me in December for my next chocolate cravings challenge!

Click on the link below.

https://bit.ly/ClairesHypnosisChallenge

If you are interested in the challenge sign up to the waiting list to be notified for the next one.

https://bit.ly/CHOCOLATE-HYPNOSIS

Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact 

You can visit my website for details of the services I offer and read reviews. Claireoldhamwest.com

Hypnotherapy can help you to achieve great results alongside your healthy intentions. Whether you attend a Slimming World group, count calories or follow a WW plan with Weight Watchers there is so much more to weight loss than losing physical weight.

Slimming Stories TikTok account - slimmingstoriespodcast

https://www.tiktok.com/@slimmingstoriespodcast?lang=en

Slimming Stories Facebook Group.

https://bit.ly/slimmingstoriesfacebookgroup

Do you want to see the results achieved in live hypnotherapy sessions? Are you not convinced that hypnotherapy works? Don't worry, I have you covered! I started the YouTube Channel with you in mind! Click on the link below to my YouTube Channel

https://bit.ly/ClaireOldhamWestHypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy can truly help you in so many different areas of your life. Join me for a free 30 minute consultation using this link https://www.claireoldhamwest.com/contact