Hello and welcome to another episode of The Human Archive. I am Dr. Jen Henderson, and today I am joined by Sarah, an extraordinary activities coordinator whose passion for care and connection truly shines.

Episode Summary
In this heartfelt conversation, Sarah shares what a typical day looks like in her role, the importance of meaningful activities for residents, and the small moments that make a big difference in care homes. We explore how loneliness can affect wellbeing, the transformations that come from genuine connection, and the reality of life in care homes beyond the stereotypes.

Key Takeaways
✨ The power of a simple conversation or shared activity to lift someone’s spirits
✨ Why noticing the quiet signs matters just as much as providing physical care
✨ The importance of treating every resident like family and ensuring everyone feels seen
✨ How documenting wellbeing can build confidence and connection with families
✨ The value of intergenerational relationships and community within care homes
✨ Sarah’s unwavering philosophy: do not give up, know your worth, and always care for others

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from these stories. Do you have a care story or memory to share? I would love to hear from you.

I'd love to hear from you - text the show!

Resources and Links:

• Website: https://escendant.ai
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehumanarchiveofficial/

Welcome 🌿

Thank you for joining me once again on The Human Archive. In today’s episode, I invite you into a conversation that often lives in the quiet corners of healthcare. We explore what doctors carry, not just the knowledge or the diagnoses, but also the emotional weight, the quiet witnessing, and the stories that linger long after the clinic doors have closed. I am joined by Dr. Naomi Jeffrey, a GP at the Dr. Jenny Clinic in Northamptonshire, menopause and wellness expert, and former nurse. Her perspective on the human experience is both unique and deeply compassionate.

Episode Summary 🩺

Together, Dr. Naomi and I talk honestly about the hidden layers of working in healthcare. We discuss the emotional toll, the silence that often surrounds mental health for both patients and clinicians, and the importance of truly listening. Dr. Naomi shares what it means to be present in the room, how she checks in with her own wellbeing, and why healing is often about witnessing rather than fixing. We reflect on stories that have stayed with us, the privilege of holding space for others, and the challenge of not carrying every story home. This conversation is both tender and necessary for anyone who has ever wondered what happens behind the scenes in medicine.

Key Takeaways ✨

• Listening is at the heart of good medicine, far beyond diagnoses
• Patients often carry unspoken fears, guilt, or shame that only surface when they feel truly safe
• Doctors are quiet witnesses to pain, resilience, and acts of kindness every day
• Reflection, supportive colleagues, and personal boundaries are vital for clinicians’ mental health
• Self care is essential, not selfish, and small daily practices can make a big difference
• Kindness and connection matter more than material things, both in and out of the clinic
• You do not have to have everything figured out – taking small steps forward is enough

Resources & Links 📚

• If you are struggling, please reach out to your GP or a mental health professional
• Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk
• Menopause and wellness information: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/
• For updates and future episodes, follow The Human Archive on Instagram

Call to Action 💬

If this conversation has brought something up for you, whether a thought, a memory, or a feeling, I hope you give yourself permission to sit with it. Maybe say it out loud, write it down, or share it with someone you trust. Remember, you are not alone, and your story matters. Thank you for listening and for witnessing these quiet truths with us today. I will be back soon with more. Until then, take care of your mind and show yourself the same kindness you offer to others.

I'd love to hear from you - text the show!

Resources and Links:

• Website: https://escendant.ai
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehumanarchiveofficial/

Welcome 🌱

Thank you for joining me once again on The Human Archive. If you are new here, I am so pleased you have found us. This podcast is a space to explore what it truly means to be human – to remember, to feel, to connect, and to speak honestly about life as it is right now. Today, and over the next few episodes, I am delving into a subject that is both tender and deeply personal: mental health and wellbeing. I am joined by some wonderful guests who will share their experiences, and together we will consider how recording our thoughts, feelings, and stories can offer healing.

Episode Summary 📝

In this episode, I reflect on the healing power of remembering and the importance of recording our lives. I share how the simple act of speaking into a voice note, without any intention to share it, can become a gentle ritual for checking in with ourselves. I discuss the invisible weight of mental health challenges and the comfort that comes from acknowledging what we carry. Through personal stories from my work as a doctor, I highlight how common struggles like anxiety, stress, and low mood are, and why our feelings are always valid, regardless of how they compare to others’ experiences. We talk about the science of negative self-talk, the protective nature of our brains, and practical ways to bring anxiety out of the shadows by naming and recording it. Finally, I invite you to pause, breathe, and consider what you are carrying that deserves to be acknowledged.

Key Takeaways ✨

• Recording your thoughts and feelings, even privately, is a powerful act of self-care and healing
• Mental health challenges affect so many of us, often in silence – your feelings are always valid
• Small rituals like voice notes can help you check in with yourself honestly and gently
• Speaking your truth, even if only to yourself, can loosen the grip of anxiety and shame
• Our brains are wired for negative self-talk, so intentional positive self-talk is essential
• Looking back on old recordings or journal entries can show you how far you have come
• You do not need to share your archive with the world – it is enough to witness yourself and your journey

Resources & Links 📚

• If you are struggling, please consider reaching out to your GP or a mental health professional
• For more on the science of memory and recording, visit Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk
• If you would like to explore journaling or voice notes, apps like Day One or your phone’s built-in recorder are a great place to start
• For updates and future episodes, follow The Human Archive on Instagram

Call to Action 💬

Before you go, I invite you to take a moment. Breathe. Ask yourself, “What am I carrying that deserves to be acknowledged?” Speak it aloud, write it down, or simply hold it in your mind. This is your archive and your care. Thank you for listening, and more importantly, thank you for listening to yourself. Keep recording, keep remembering, and keep showing up for your own story. I will be back soon with more. Until then, be gentle with your mind and keep speaking.

I'd love to hear from you - text the show!

Resources and Links:

• Website: https://escendant.ai
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehumanarchiveofficial/

Welcome to The Human Archive Podcast! 🎙️
Hi everyone, I’m Dr. Jen Henderson, and I’m so glad you’re here for another episode of The Human Archive. This week, I’m joined once again by my colleague Em, a fellow Story Collector here at The Human Archive. Together, we dive into a fascinating and thought-provoking conversation about storytelling and how it weaves through every stage of our lives.

Episode Summary ✨
In this episode, Em and I reflect on how stories shape us, from the ones we absorb as children to the ones we create in adolescence, and finally to the ones we pass on as elders. We discuss the evolving role of storytelling throughout life and how it impacts our identity, relationships, and even the legacy we leave behind.

We also explore the stories we tell ourselves, some true, some not, and how they influence the way we see ourselves and the world. Along the way, we share insights from our recent work collecting stories from elders in care homes, offering a beautiful perspective on the wisdom and memories they hold.

This episode is an invitation to reflect on your own stories, the ones you’ve been told, and the ones you’re creating.

Key Takeaways 📚

• The Power of Childhood Stories: The stories we are told as children often shape how we see ourselves, for better or worse.
• Adolescence and Experimentation: As teenagers, we begin to create our own narratives, exploring who we are and who we want to be.
• The Midlife Re-Examination: In middle age, we often revisit our stories with wisdom and insight, rewriting them with new understanding.
• Legacy Through Storytelling: Later in life, storytelling becomes about legacy, passing on memories and meaning to future generations.
• The Stories We Tell Ourselves: Not all the stories we live by are true. Reflecting on and challenging these narratives can transform how we see ourselves.

If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who would love it too. Your support helps us keep preserving and celebrating the beauty of human stories.

Thank you for listening. I can’t wait to hear your stories!

I'd love to hear from you - text the show!

Resources and Links:

• Website: https://escendant.ai
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehumanarchiveofficial/

Welcome to The Human Archive Podcast! 🎙️
Hi, I’m Dr. Jen Henderson, and I’m so glad you’re here. Whether you’re walking, driving, or curled up at home, thank you for spending this time with me. Today’s episode is a little different, it’s just you and me. Together, we’re going on a journey through the story of storytelling itself.

Episode Summary ✨
Have you ever wondered why stories are so central to our lives? From ancient cave paintings to modern digital clouds, humans have always found ways to preserve what matters most. In this episode, I explore how storytelling has evolved, why it’s so deeply human, and how it shapes the way we connect, remember, and leave a legacy.

We’ll reflect on oral traditions, the invention of writing, and the digital age, while asking some big questions. What stories do we want to preserve? What memories truly matter? And how can we ensure the things we care about most are never forgotten?

By the end of this episode, I hope you’ll feel inspired to reconnect with your own stories and share them with the people you love.

Key Takeaways 📚

• The origins of storytelling: How oral traditions helped early humans survive and thrive.
• The evolution of memory: From cave paintings to written words, photography, and sound recordings.
• The digital era: Why we’re more documented than ever but risk losing what matters most.
• The timeless heart of storytelling: It’s not about hoarding data - it’s about curating a legacy.
• Your call to action: Take a moment today to reflect on a memory you don’t want to lose. Write it down, record it, or share it with someone you love.

If this episode stirred a memory or made you think about your own story differently, I’d love to hear from you. Subscribe to The Human Archive and leave a review, it helps more people discover the podcast and celebrate the beauty of storytelling.

Thank you for joining me. Let’s keep holding onto what truly matters, one story at a time.

I'd love to hear from you - text the show!

Resources and Links:

• Website: https://escendant.ai
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehumanarchiveofficial/

Welcome to The Human Archive Podcast! 🎙️
Hi everyone, I’m Dr. Jen Henderson, and I’m so glad you’re here for this week’s episode of The Human Archive. Today, we’re exploring something we all long for - how to unlock the stories and memories that make us human.

Episode Summary ✨
In this episode, I share five powerful tools to help bring buried memories to the surface, whether they’re your own or someone else’s. From revisiting old places to using music, photos, and even scents, we’ll explore how these triggers can unlock hidden stories and reconnect us with ourselves and our loved ones.

I also reflect on the fascinating science behind memory and storytelling, including how recalling a story strengthens its connection in the brain. This episode is an invitation to slow down, ask meaningful questions, and preserve the stories that matter most.

Key Takeaways 📚

• Revisit Locations: Physical places hold emotional echoes that can bring memories back to life.
• Use Photos or Objects: Items like jewellery, recipe books, or old photos can act as anchors for buried stories.
• Play Music: Music activates emotion, movement, and memory, making it a powerful trigger for storytelling.
• Engage the Senses: Smells, textures, and sounds can unlock vivid memories.
• Be Patient and Present: Sometimes, all it takes is silence and trust for a memory to surface.

If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who would love it too. Your support helps us continue to preserve and celebrate the beauty of human stories.

Thank you for listening. I can’t wait to hear your stories!

I'd love to hear from you - text the show!

Resources and Links:

• Website: https://escendant.ai
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehumanarchiveofficial/

Your everyday moments hold the power to inspire, connect, and transform. Discover how sharing your stories can make a difference, for yourself, your loved ones, and even strangers. ✨

Welcome to The Human Archive Podcast! 🎙️
Hi everyone, I’m Dr. Jen Henderson, and I’m so excited to share this episode with you. Today, I’m joined by Em, a Story Collector here at Escendant, The Human Archive. Together, we’re diving into the essence of storytelling, what it is, why it matters, and the incredible impact our stories can have on ourselves and others.

Episode Summary ✨
In this episode, Em and I explore the beauty and importance of everyday stories. We discuss how stories shape our connections, why they’re worth preserving, and how they can inspire others. Em shares heartfelt personal experiences, including the lessons she’s learned through her role as a Story Collector and her own life journey. We also reflect on how technology has changed the way we share and remember stories, and why it’s vital to take notice of the little moments in life.

By the end of this episode, you’ll feel inspired to embrace your stories, share them with others, and recognise their value, even the small ones.

Key Takeaways 📚

• What is a story? It’s not just big life events - it’s the little moments, memories, and experiences that make up our lives.
• Do we notice our stories? Often, we don’t. But these everyday moments can hold deep meaning for us and those around us.
• Who benefits from our stories? Beyond ourselves, our stories can impact friends, family, and even strangers, creating connection and understanding.
• The role of technology: While it can distract us, it also offers a powerful way to preserve and share stories.
• Why journaling matters: Writing or recording your memories can help you reflect, preserve your experiences, and even inspire others in the future.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this. Your support means the world to us and helps us continue to preserve and celebrate the beauty of human stories.

Thank you for being here. I can’t wait to hear your stories!

I'd love to hear from you - text the show!

Resources and Links:

• Website: https://escendant.ai
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehumanarchiveofficial/

Storytelling is fundamental to being human. It’s how we connect, pass down wisdom, and make sense of the world. But why do we often struggle to share our own stories? In this episode, I explore the power of storytelling, why it matters, and how even the smallest, everyday moments can hold meaning.

📖 Episode Summary
From oral traditions around fires to scrolling through Facebook, storytelling has always been at the heart of human connection. It shapes our societies, triggers emotions, and even rewires our brains. But many of us hesitate to share our stories – doubting their significance or unsure where to start.

I’ll reflect on how storytelling helps us process emotions, find meaning in life’s challenges, and connect across generations. You’ll also hear some personal memories, from navigating dial-up internet to childhood trips to the sweet shop. These moments, though ordinary, remind us why our stories deserve to be told.

✨ Key Takeaways

• Storytelling is universal: It’s how we’ve shared knowledge and connected for centuries.
• The science of storytelling: Stories evoke emotions, release oxytocin, and make information stick.
• Everyday moments matter: Even the smallest stories can hold meaning and deserve to be remembered.
• Overcoming doubt: Why we hesitate to share our stories and how to embrace their value.

📚 Resources & Links

• Explore David JP Phillips’ research on storytelling in communication.
• Learn from LaVar Burton’s insights on storytelling as a foundation of civilisation.
• Watch BBC Archive videos for a nostalgic glimpse into life decades ago.

💡 A Thought to Reflect On
What story from your life would seem extraordinary to someone decades from now? Take a moment to reflect on it and share it – because your stories matter.

Thank you for listening to The Human Archive. Let’s keep sharing our stories and preserving the moments that make us human.

I'd love to hear from you - text the show!

Resources and Links:

• Website: https://escendant.ai
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehumanarchiveofficial/

Welcome to the very first episode of The Human Archive Podcast! I’m Jen Henderson, CEO and co-founder of Escendant, The Human Archive, and I’m thrilled to share this journey with you. In this debut episode, I take you back to the beginning, to the moment I realised how precious our stories, voices, and memories truly are.

As someone who has spent decades listening to people’s stories, often in their most vulnerable moments, I’ve seen how deeply personal narratives shape who we are. I’ve also seen how easily those stories can fade away. Through my own experiences, both professional and personal, I came to understand the importance of preserving these memories, not just for ourselves but for future generations.

This episode is about the “why” behind The Human Archive. It’s about the voices we’ve lost, the lessons we’ve learned, and the humanity we must preserve. I’ll also share simple ways you can start capturing the moments that matter most in your own life.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The personal and professional experiences that inspired me to create The Human Archive.
• Why our voices and stories are the most valuable legacies we leave behind.
• The emotional, psychological, and spiritual importance of preserving memories.
• Practical steps to start recording your own story or the stories of those you love.

Key Quotes from the Episode:

• “The most precious parts of our lives are our voices, our lessons, and our humanity - so often lost.”
• “Healing isn’t just physical; it’s emotional, psychological, and spiritual, deeply tied to the connections we make and what we leave behind.”
• “We live in an era where we can document everything, but we often record the wrong things. Let’s focus on what truly matters.”

Your Challenge This Week:
Take a moment to record the voice of someone you love - whether it’s a piece of advice, a memory, or even a laugh. Or, document your own thoughts and feelings in a short voice memo. It doesn’t have to be perfect - just start.

Next Week on The Human Archive:
In Episode 2, I’ll explore the challenges of capturing our stories and why it’s so hard to make time for it. Together, we’ll dive deeper into the importance of preserving our humanity.

I'd love to hear from you - text the show!

Resources and Links:

• Website: https://escendant.ai
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehumanarchiveofficial/

Welcome to The Human Archive Podcast! 🎙️
Hi, I’m Dr. Jen Henderson, and I’m so excited to invite you into The Human Archive a podcast where every story is a time capsule and every voice matters.

What’s This Podcast About? ✨
Have you ever noticed how a single story can change the way you see everything? That’s the heart of The Human Archive. This isn’t just a podcast, it’s a growing collection of voices, memories, and moments that remind us what it means to be human.

Each episode, we’ll explore stories that shape us, break us, and heal us. You’ll hear from remarkable guests—artists, survivors, scientists, and seekers—alongside reflections on themes like identity, resilience, love, and the quiet moments that change everything.

Why Listen? 🧡

• If you’re longing for more meaning in your day…
• If you crave stories that stay with you long after they end…
• If you believe that sharing who we are is the most human thing we can do…

This podcast is for you.

Subscribe now to The Human Archive wherever you listen to podcasts. Let’s build something timeless together, because every story deserves to be heard.

I'd love to hear from you - text the show!

Resources and Links:

• Website: https://escendant.ai
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehumanarchiveofficial/