In this episode, we take an unflinching look at our most primal sense – touch.

Here, we explore sensitive themes around touch, shame and vulnerability.

At birth, touch begins so naturally and innocently, yet as we grow up, events, fears and taboos often begin to weave shame into our skin. From the innocence of a child’s need for comfort, through layers of explorative experiments, seeking attention and expressing desire, some more perilous than others, human contact can start to feel claustrophobic and threatening. However, it is possible to trace how the body learns to guard itself and to withdraw from the very connection it craves.

We’ll look at what happens when tenderness is taught to hide and how, even after decades of caution, the body is able to learn to trust again. For some, this story may be painful, both physically and emotionally, but it might also lead to the rediscovery and celebration of one’s ability to touch and be touched, thereby bringing about healing and allowing one to find the quiet courage it takes to reach back out toward another.

Where has touch felt safe, or unsafe, in your own experience?

We all know the feeling — a conversation turns sour, and suddenly the people we care about most become the ones we hurt the deepest. In this episode, I explore why conflict feels so personal, how our language often fuels misunderstanding and what it really takes to restore connection.

Drawing on ideas from Marshall Rosenberg’s Nonviolent Communication, I look at the tension between being right and being understood and how reframing our communication can turn arguments into opportunities for empathy, truth and growth.

Whether it’s a partner, a colleague or a friend, this episode invites you to pause, listen differently and discover what’s really alive beneath the words.

SoulSearching is a series of audacious conversations that challenge the way the world taught us to think because every answer opens a door to a deeper question.

Immerse yourself in Stripped, South Africa's first feature-length audio drama, produced by Baird Media, now streaming on https://startlivingmy.life/stripped and all major platforms.

Based on the life of Thomas W E Budge, Stripped tells the gripping story of one man's defiance against apartheid-era conscription in 1971 and his struggle to break free from the control of the JW Organisation, despite being shunned.

For exclusive bonus content, including historical insights and behind-the-scenes material, visit https://startlivingmy.life/stripped and join the movement.

Dive deeper into the turbulent backdrop of apartheid South Africa in the early 1970s with this companion podcast. Thomas W E Budge explores the tense relationships between key political figures, the Watchtower Society, and the apartheid regime, focusing on Jehovah’s Witnesses’ defiance of conscription and the persecution of homosexuals.

Gain a richer understanding of the complex forces shaping Stripped and the courageous fight for freedom in a time of repression. Listen now and enhance your experience of the powerful audio drama. Visit https://startlivingmy.life/stripped for access.

In this companion podcast, Thomas W E Budge reflects on the personal and societal reasons behind the creation of Stripped. As a teenager detained for resisting conscription in apartheid South Africa, Thomas shares how the control of both the apartheid regime and the Watchtower Society impacted young Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Stripped is not just a story from the past—it’s a message of self-advocacy and a reminder of the ongoing fight for freedom and inclusion. Hear the motivations behind this vital drama. Visit https://startlivingmy.life/stripped to listen.

Thomas W E Budge’s story isn’t just one of personal triumph; it’s a powerful exposé of harmful religious doctrines and a source of encouragement for those marginalised and victimised for their differences.

Unlike typical South African podcasts, Stripped breaks new ground as the country’s first feature-length audio drama. Produced by Baird Media, it tells the true story of Thomas’ courageous defiance against apartheid military conscription in 1971. Raised as a Jehovah’s Witness, Thomas stood firm in his religious beliefs, leading to his imprisonment in solitary confinement.

This audio drama is a tribute to his resilience and a reminder of the personal sacrifices made in the fight for freedom. Visit https://startlivingmy.life/stripped to listen now.

Juxtaposed against the outer world lies an inner world full of imagination and abstraction, a rich world of raw emotion, a cauldron of lust, holiness, inspiration, insightfulness, depravity and terror. To some this is a private sanctuary, to others it is their place of imprisonment. Which is it for you?

Standing in the immigration queue at O R Thambo airport on one of my regular trips back south, I watch the strangest scene unfold.

None of us asked to be here. Nobody offered us a choice over our gender, race, body type, looks, upbringing, preferences, idiosyncrasies and inherent skills, yet here we are whether we like it or not. So, the million-dollar question is, "What the hell do we do with this strange and awkward thing called life?"

Today, Yvonne graciously volunteered to be my Guinea pig so that I could record a 40-min hypnosis session as my gift to all of you. Please do not listen to it if you are on the go or need to focus your attention on what you are doing. Only listen to it when it is safe for you to do so. If you do share this track with others, please share the entire blog and not just the recording as it is important that we convey this cautionary note to all listeners. The recording is intended to help you get into hypnotic trance so it is best enjoyed in a quiet, private, undisturbed space where you can cozy up in a comfortable armchair or recline on your bed or sofa. It would also be a great idea to put your phone on silent while you listen to it.

I recorded the session in my consulting room and so it has a tiny bit of echo which I cannot erase. So be it.

The theme of this session demonstrates that you have the power to control your subconscious responses to that which the world throws at us all. As with all hypnosis, you need no special skill to fully enjoy this space. You cannot get stuck or locked into this space either. The worst-case scenario (if you follow the instructions above) is that you could drift off into a wonderful deep, relaxing sleep from which you will awaken, refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated, as you always have done after all those magical naps of yours.

I'd love to get your comment and suggestions as always. Contact me here or privately.

Do I mind if you share this with others? Not in the least. If it helps others to cope with #lockdown, be my guest and share it freely.